Rheumatoid Arthritis
Morning stiffness, fatigue, joint pain, and swelling are common initial symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) that do not differ substantially from other forms of inflammatory arthritis.1 There is also a wide range of other conditions that can mimic RA. The ambiguity and overlap of symptoms—especially in its early stages—can make RA difficult to diagnose.
Early detection can potentially save patients from the irreversible joint damage, systemic complications, and considerable morbidity—all of which they may face if their disease goes undiagnosed and untreated.1
- Suresh E. Diagnosis of early rheumatoid arthritis: what the non-specialist needs to know. J R Soc Med. 2004;97:421-424.