Rheumatology Edition | When to Suspect (RA) Rheumatoid Arthritis
Mayo Clinic Talks
Non-articular Complications and Diagnostic Questions for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis can lead to non-articular complications such as RAI-ILD (interstitial lung disease), increased risk of heart disease, and lymphoma. Patients with untreated or active rheumatoid arthritis are at a higher risk of mortality due to RAI-ILD. Additionally, the mortality rate for patients with persistent, high active disease is three times higher than those without rheumatoid arthritis, leading to a 10-year shorter life expectancy. However, if the disease is well-controlled or in remission, there is no change in life expectancy. When evaluating patients for suspected rheumatoid arthritis, asking about symmetric joint distribution, what makes the symptoms better or worse, and the timing of pain, particularly in the morning, are important diagnostic questions.
