Question

A 32-year-old patient reports a 6-month history of intermittent symmetrical swelling of the wrists and daily morning stiffness lasting 1 hour or more in and around other joints. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Answer 1

A 32-year-old patient with symmetrical wrist swelling and prolonged morning joint stiffness likely has Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune disorder affecting the joints.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most likely diagnosis for a 32-year-old patient who has a 6-month history of intermittent symmetrical swelling of the wrists and daily morning stiffness lasting 1 hour or more in and around other joints is Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RA is an inflammatory autoimmune disorder primarily affecting synovial joints, which become swollen, stiff, and painful. The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, causing cartilage breakdown, joint lining inflammation, and subsequent pain, commonly starting in the hands, feet, and cervical spine. RA usually presents between 40 to 50 years of age and is more common in individuals with declining estrogen levels, although it can also occur in younger adults.