FEATURED MEDICAL EDUCATION TOPIC: Rheumatoid Arthritis: Current Concepts and Future Directions

What is the problem?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common form of autoimmune arthritis, characterized by chronic inflammation that primarily affects the wrists and the small joints of the hands and feet, leading to pain, swelling, and potential joint damage. An estimated 1.5 million adults in the United States are living with RA, with women being two to three times more likely than men to develop the condition. Although there is currently no cure for RA, advances in therapy over the past three decades have significantly improved patient outcomes. Early diagnosis is critical, as prompt treatment can slow or even halt disease progression. Primary care physicians play a vital role in recognizing early symptoms, initiating appropriate management, and ensuring timely referral to rheumatologists. To provide optimal care, healthcare professionals must stay informed about current treatment strategies and be prepared to effectively manage and coordinate care for patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Proposed Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of this activity, the learners will be able to:

• Recall the diagnostic work-up and classification criteria for rheumatoid arthritis
• Recognize the systemic manifestations of, and multimorbidity associated with, rheumatoid arthritis
• Understand the pathogenesis and key immune pathways involved in rheumatoid arthritis
• Recall the treatments that are available and are being studied for rheumatoid arthritis and the concept of treat-to-target
• Appreciate the safety concerns associated with immunosuppressive treatments

If your medical staff needs a CME update on rheumatoid arthritis, consider contacting our office to book a speaker at 714-505-4777 or info@speakersnetwork.com.

REFERENCES

https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis

https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/rheumatoid-arthritis/index.html

https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/treatment/treatment-plan/disease-management/treatments-for-rheumatoid-arthritis