Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation of the joints and various degrees of extra-articular disability. Untreated rheumatoid arthritis leads not only to a decrease in quality of life but also to significant functional limitations, but is also associated with higher mortality.
A prerequisite for successful treatment is the timely diagnosis, which may not be easy. From the practical point of view, the most important is the differentiation of inflammatory arthritis from non-inflammatory osteoarthritis.
Rheumatological examination is indicated in patients with clear arthritis (swelling and palpitations) of at least one joint, with metacarpofalangeal or metatarsophalangeal joints, and with morning stiffness lasting at least 30 minutes.