Rheumatic arthritis (RA) is most popular collagen diseases.
Recently the criteria of RA is changed. New criteria is here.
This is because based on old one, we could not diagnose early and treat early. When the joints are broken, it is irreversible. Therefore, new one is modified for early finding and early treatment.
Osteoarthritis(OA) is almost same symptoms and popular. It is important to find whether RA or OA.
How should we find difference between them?
RA tend to become swelling PIP(proximal interphalangeal) or MP(metacarpophalangeal)joints, and the touch sensation is like a bread dough.
On the other hand, OA is tend to DIP(distal interphalangeal) joints, and we can touch the joints as so hard.
When you find joint swelling in PIP or MP joints, you should consult to a specialist of collagen diseases.
He also told that it is also important for PGY (Post-Graduated Year)1 or 2 to do a knee arthrocentesis to rule out septic arthritis.
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