Assessing and Management of Patients with Rheumatic Disorders

Assist the B cells in producing antibodies. destroy target cells and stimulate macrophage. A T cell does not bind to a specific antigen

Stimulate the production of antibodies and plama cell

When symptoms are reduced or absent

When symptoms occur or increase

Inflammation of a joing

Nonopioid medication is used for pain. Also, salicylates, NSAID, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs

A mild analgesic agent may be suggested before exercise for a patient starting a program

Autoimmune disease. More females. Pannus destroyes cartilage and erodes the bone.

Joint pain, swelling, warmth, spongy or boggy tissue, bilateral and symmetric, joint stiffness in the morning. Immobilization for a long period may lead to contractiors. also, fever, weight loss, fatigue, lymph node enlargement

RBC and C4 are decreased; ANA test positive; arthrocentesis shows synovial fluid that is cloudy, milky, or dark yellow and contains leukocytes. X rays shows bony erosions and narrow joint space and should be done every 3 yrs.

Salicylates or NSAIDS. also, COX-2 (Cyclo-oxygenase) involved in the inflammatory process. Methotrexate is a standard treatment.

Suturing of a tendon

Excision of the synovial membrane

Surgical fusion of the joint

Surgical repair and replacement of joint