Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, inflammatory autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to attack the joints. It is a disabling and painful inflammatory condition, which can lead to substantial loss of mobility due to pain and joint destruction. The disease is also systemic in that it often also affects many extra-articular tissues throughout the body including the skin, blood vessels, heart, lungs, and muscles.

History

The first known traces of arthritis date back as far as 4500 BC. It was noted in skeletal remains of Indians found in Tennessee. A text dated 123 AD first describes symptoms very similair to rheumatoid arthritis. In 1859 the disease got its current name.

Related Topics:
4500 BC - Indians - Tennessee - 123 AD - Symptom - 1859

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