Rheumatoid arthritis vs.
osteoarthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a destructive joint disease that is
caused by inflammation in the tissue that normally produces lubrication fluid
for joints. When this tissue remains inflamed, it leads to deformity by
loosening joint ligaments and to joint destruction by eroding away cartilage
and bone.
Osteoarthritis is a noninflammatory joint disease whereby
the cartilage of the joint thins, typically asymmetrically -- so only one knee
or hand may be affected. The illustration on the previous page demonstrates the
difference between a normal joint and those of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid
arthritis.
While rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic illness, meaning it
can last for years, patients may experience long periods without symptoms.
However, rheumatoid arthritis is typically a progressive illness that has the
potential to cause significant joint destruction and functional disability.
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