Question

Mabel, a 42-year-old woman, is having a checkup with her arthritis specialist. She tells the specialist that she is experiencing more joint pain and stiffness than usual. The specialist examines Mabel and notes that her hands and feet are becoming more deformed in appearance due to severe joint inflammation. It is also harder for Mabel to perform activities of daily living. Mabel states that it is difficult for her to open bottles, turn doorknobs, and put on her socks and shoes. She also experiences pain and tires easily when walking short distances.

1. Given her symptoms, what type of arthritis might Mabel have?

2. What are the major characteristics of this disorder?

3. What is the cause of this condition and the resulting joint damage?

4. How widespread is arthritis?

Answer 1

Step-by-step explanation:

1. Given her symptoms, what type of arthritis might Mabel have?

Based on Mabel's symptoms of joint pain, stiffness, and deformity, it is likely that she has rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

2. What are the major characteristics of this disorder?

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing inflammation. The major characteristics of RA include:

Symmetrical joint involvement: RA typically affects the same joints on both sides of the body.

Joint pain and stiffness: Mabel's symptoms of joint pain and stiffness are common in RA, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.

Joint deformity: Over time, RA can lead to joint deformities, as seen in Mabel's hands and feet.

Fatigue: RA can cause fatigue and a general feeling of being unwell.

Systemic involvement: RA can also affect other organs and systems in the body, such as the eyes, lungs, and heart.

3. What is the cause of this condition and the resulting joint damage?

The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. In RA, the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium, which is the lining of the joints. This leads to chronic inflammation, which can result in joint damage and deformity over time.

4. How widespread is arthritis?

Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 300 million people worldwide have arthritis. It is more common in older adults, but it can affect people of all ages, including children. There are different types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout, each with its own prevalence rates.