Reviewed by Michael Fuller, M.D.Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is also known as inflammatory arthritis. It causes the same pain from joint destruction that osteoarthritis produces but by a different mechanism. RA is thought to result from an autoimmune reaction. In a complex series of interactions, the tissues surrounding the joints become inflamed and erode into the joints. It is a systemic disease, meaning it can cause many other problems with areas of the body both in and outside of joints. Typical deformities can often be seen in other parts of the body, especially the hands.
Causes and Risk Factors
Causes
The exact cause is unknown. Rheumatoid arthritis is suspected to be autoimmune or may be set in motion by viral or bacterial infection.Risk Factors
- Family history (of arthritis or autoimmune diseases)
- Genetic defects (autoimmune system)
- Female gender (usually between the ages of 20 to 50
- Native American ethnicity
Last updated: May-02-07
