![]() ![]() Target population (Who should be tested?): Patients who Acute-phase reactants (at least 1 test result is needed for classification) Serology (at least 1 test result is needed for classification)*Ĭ. 2010 RA classification criteria ġ-3 small joints (with or without involvement of large joints)Ĥ-10 small joints (with or without involvement of large joints)ī. The new classification criteria, released by both the American College of Rheumatology and the European League Against Rheumatism in 2010, emphasize early diagnosis through recognition of characteristic symptoms and exam findings, aided by laboratory tests. ![]() The 1987 RA classification criteria, though quite specific, were less sensitive for early disease, instead emphasizing features of more advanced disease like rheumatoid nodules, radiographic changes, and extraarticular manifestations. Until late last year, however, the classification criteria for RA had not changed in more than 23 years. It is therefore important to be familiar with RA presentation. Within the last few years, it has become apparent that the earlier the disease is diagnosed and the sooner the treatment with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) is started, the better the outcomes-there may be a “window of opportunity” in which prompt recognition and treatment of RA can lead to sustained remission and prevent all or most structural joint damage. ![]() The disease is accompanied by chronic pain and functional impairments (with the resulting loss of productivity and disability) caused by varied degrees of joint destruction-until recently considered an inexorable consequence of the disease. In recent years, the mean age has risen, and there has been a small decline in prevalence. Twice as many women as men have the condition, and the mean age of those affected is 66 (incidence climbs beginning at age 40 and declines after 70). RA prevalence is approximately 1 percent worldwide, with higher rates among Native Americans and lower rates in Asia and rural Africa. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common, chronic autoimmune disease with high morbidity and mortality. ![]()
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