Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Medical Overview
Overview:
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic autoimmune disorder primarily affecting synovial joints. It leads to inflammation, joint damage, and systemic manifestations. Unlike osteoarthritis, RA can affect multiple organs and often presents with symmetrical joint involvement. It affects about 0.5–1% of the global population, with a higher occurance in females.
Pathophysiology:
RA is initiated by autoimmune dysregulation. Genetic predisposition (e.g., HLA-DR4, HLA-DR1) and environmental triggers (like smoking or infections) activate T-cells, leading to the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1, and IL-6. These promote synovial inflammation, pannus formation, cartilage destruction, and bone erosion.
Signs and Symptoms:
♦ Morning stiffness lasting more than 1 hour.
♦ Swelling and tenderness in small joints (e.g., hands, wrists).
♦ Fatigue, low-grade fever, weight loss.
♦ Symmetrical joint involvement .
Extra-articular manifestations :
• rheumatoid nodules
• lung fibrosis
• pericarditis
• cutaneous involvement etc.
Complications:
► Joint deformities (swan neck deformities, boutonnière deformities)
► Osteoporosis
► Cardiovascular disease
► Interstitial lung disease
► Felty’s syndrome (RA + splenomegaly + neutropenia)
Diagnostic Approach:
⇒ Clinical evaluation: joint swelling, stiffness etc.
⇒ Blood tests: Rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-CCP antibodies, ESR, CRP .
⇒ Imaging: X-ray, MRI, or ultrasound to detect joint erosion and synovitis.
⇒ Following classification criteria: 2010 ACR/EULAR criteria (score-based system).
Recent Research Data:
Recent studies focus on biologic DMARDs (Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs) which are showing some kind of effectiveness but have clear limitations . In traditional practice non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs) and intermittent steroid therapy shoes positive results but cannot be continued as a long term therapy because of it's huge side effects. Ongoing trials explore gut microbiome roles in RA and predictive biomarkers for personalized therapy.
In this context homeopathy is showing its competence to control the symptoms without any side effects. It is also a popular therapy because of its cost effectiveness.
Conclusion:
RA is a progressive autoimmune condition requiring early diagnosis and aggressive treatment to prevent joint destruction and systemic complications. Using augmented homeopathy have revolutionized RA management, offering hope for long-term remission and improved quality of life.
An article by, Team DNC ACADEMY.
Edited by, Dr. Soumallya Chattopadhyay.