Pathophysiology of Arthritis Explained

Pathophysiology of Arthritis Explained

(Pathophysiology of Arthritis Explained)

Arthritis is a term encompassing various joint disorders, primarily characterized by inflammation, pain, and dysfunction. The most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease caused by the breakdown of cartilage, the smooth tissue that cushions joints. This cartilage deterioration leads to bone-on-bone friction, causing pain, swelling, and decreased joint mobility. OA primarily affects weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and spine.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system erroneously attacks the synovial membrane, which lines the joints. This immune attack results in chronic inflammation, swelling, and eventual joint damage. Over time, RA can lead to joint deformity and loss of function. RA typically affects smaller joints, such as those in the hands and feet, and can also impact systemic organs.

Both types of arthritis result in joint pain and stiffness, but their underlying mechanisms differ. OA is driven by mechanical stress and wear-and-tear, while RA involves an autoimmune inflammatory process. Early diagnosis and management are crucial in controlling symptoms and preventing joint damage.

Pathophysiology of Arthritis Explained

While arthritis impacts nearly 50 million adults in the United States, it is not a disease that is limited to adulthood. Consider the case of Ashley Russell. At the age of 14 months, Ashley was diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. As a baby, her parents noticed that her knee was always swollen and that she often wanted to be carried instead of walking on her own (Cyr, 2012). After seeking medical care, Ashley’s underlying disorder was discovered. Arthritis in children is not uncommon. According to the CDC (2011), an estimated 294,000 children under age 18 have some form of arthritis or rheumatic condition. Due to the prevalence of the disorder in both children and adults, you must understand the pathophysiology and symptoms of arthritis in order to properly diagnose and prescribe treatment.

To Prepare

· Review Chapter 37 in the Huether and McCance text and Chapter 24 in the McPhee and Hammer text. Identify the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Consider the similarities and differences of the disorders.

· Select two of the following patient factors: genetics, gender, ethnicity, age, or behavior. Reflect on how the factors you selected might impact the pathophysiology of the disorders, as well as the diagnosis of and treatment for the disorders.

Post a description of the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, including the similarities and differences between the disorders. Then explain how the factors you selected might impact the pathophysiology of the disorders, as well as the diagnosis of treatment for the disorders.