DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

Back to Globe
Autoimmune Disease

Rheumatoid Arthritis

MODERATE

A chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease primarily affecting synovial joints, causing painful swelling and potential joint deformity and bone erosion. Systemic features can affect cardiovascular, pulmonary, and other organ systems. Affects women 2-3 times more than men.

Global Affected

18.0M

Countries

15

Symptoms

Joint pain, swelling, warmth
Morning stiffness >1 hour
Symmetric joint involvement
Rheumatoid nodules
Fatigue
Fever
Weight loss

Treatment Options

Corticosteroids
Immunosuppressants
Biologic agents
DMARDs
Plasmapheresis
IVIG
Physical therapy
Symptom management

Risk Factors

1Female gender
2Family history
3Genetic predisposition
4Environmental triggers
5Infections
6Hormonal factors
7Smoking

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Autoantibody testing
  • 2Inflammatory markers
  • 3Imaging
  • 4Biopsy
  • 5Clinical criteria
  • 6Exclusion of other causes

Prognosis

Variable; many autoimmune diseases are chronic with relapsing-remitting courses. Early treatment and modern biologics have significantly improved outcomes.

Prevention

  • No specific prevention
  • Smoking cessation
  • Avoidance of triggers
  • Early diagnosis and treatment
  • Regular monitoring

Research Status

Multiple biologics available: TNF inhibitors (adalimumab, etanercept), IL-6 inhibitors (tocilizumab), JAK inhibitors (tofacitinib, upadacitinib). Treat-to-target approach achieves remission in many.

Affected Countries

AustraliaBrazilCanadaChinaGermanySpainFranceUnited KingdomIndiaItalyJapanNigeriaNetherlandsUnited StatesSouth Africa

Sources

  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519046
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.