Autoimmune Arthritis?

What is Autoimmune Arthritis or Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases (AIRDs) ?

Autoimmune arthritis refers to a group of arthritis types caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking the body's own tissues, particularly the joints. This leads to chronic inflammation, pain, swelling, and damage to the joint structures. Unlike wear-and-tear arthritis (like osteoarthritis), autoimmune arthritis results from an abnormal immune response.

Common Types of Autoimmune Arthritis

1. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA):

   • A systemic condition where the immune system attacks the synovium (lining of the joints).

   • Can affect multiple joints and may cause systemic symptoms like fatigue, fever, and organ involvement.

2. Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA):

   • Associated with psoriasis, a skin condition.

   • Leads to joint pain, swelling, and sometimes changes in the nails or skin.

3. Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS):

   • Affects the spine and sacroiliac joints, leading to stiffness and pain.

   • Can cause the spine to fuse over time.

4. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE):

   • Affects multiple systems in the body, including joints.

   • Joint pain is often accompanied by rashes, kidney issues, or heart involvement.

5. Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA):

   • Affects children and is characterized by chronic joint inflammation.

   • May also involve the eyes and other organs.

6. Reactive Arthritis:

   • Triggered by an infection, such as gastrointestinal or genitourinary infections.

   • Causes joint pain, often in the lower limbs.

Symptoms

• Joint pain, swelling, and stiffness (worse in the morning or after inactivity).

• Fatigue, fever, or malaise.

• Restricted range of motion in affected joints.

• In severe cases, joint deformity or loss of function.

Causes

The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. Triggers may include infections, stress, or other immune system dysregulations.

Diagnosis

• Blood tests: Rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-CCP antibodies, or ANA.

• Imaging: X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds to detect joint damage.

• Physical examination and symptom history.

Treatment

• Medications:

  • Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs): Methotrexate, biologics.

  • NSAIDs: For pain and inflammation.

  • Corticosteroids: Short-term use for severe inflammation.

• Physical therapy: To maintain joint function and mobility.

• Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress management.

• Surgery: In severe cases, joint replacement or repair may be needed.

Autoimmune arthritis is a lifelong condition but can often be managed effectively with early diagnosis and proper treatment.