RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune systemic inflammatory disease with an estimated worldwide prevalence of 1%, predominating in women between 40 and 50 years old. Methodology: For this review article, academic books on the topic in question were used in conjunction with articles from the Scielo, Medline and Pubmed databases. Discussion: The etiology of RA is still quite unknown, however, genetic and environmental factors seem to be involved in the induction of the process of citrullination of proteins, which are now recognized as antigens, thereby triggering an autoimmune response preceding the AR. In this context, the RA symptoms are quite varied and nonspecific, and the association between physical and imaging exams is essential for its diagnosis. Currently there is no cure for RA, and the treatment, divided into pharmacological and non-pharmacological, is aimed at improvement and remission of symptomlaborators. Conclusion: Rheumatoid Arthritis is a disease with significant prevalence and very aggressive nature, whose etiology is not yet well elucidated. Therefore, it is of paramount importance to make an early diagnosis in order to avoid the most aggressive symptoms of this pathology. Finally, there is still no cure for RA, but recent studies bring new therapeutic approaches that can increase the quality of life of those with this disease.