Rheumatoid arthritis: aetiology and clinical features

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a multisystem inflammatory disease affecting the joints and other tissues. RA affects about 1% of the population and has similar prevalence around the world. The aetiology of the disease is multifactorial but once initiated, RA invokes the broad spectrum of inflammatory immune pathways. The onset and course of the disease is variable but those with persisting synovitis at 12 weeks rarely undergo spontaneous remission. The key to optimal management of RA requires early diagnosis and use of specific antirheumatic agents at an early stage to suppress and reduce functional decline.