Aetiopathology of rheumatoid arthritis

Although the aetiology of rheumatoid arthritis remains unknown, there have been considerable advances in our understanding of its aetiopathogenesis in the last two decades. The role of genetic and environmental interactions in giving rise to immune dysregulation and the key cellular and cytokine mediators, as well as the signalling pathways involved, have been extensively studied. These insights have led to major advances in therapeutic options in the pharmacological management of this condition.