A STUDY ON CLINICAL PROFILE OF PATIENTS PRESENTING WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL OF PUNE CITY

Abstract

Background: The clinical picture of Rheumatoid arthritis is mainly related to the affection of peripheral joints. The present study was planned with an objective to study clinical and laboratory profile of patients presenting with rheumatoid arthritis.

Methodology: The present study was a cross-sectional study conducted on cases of rheumatoid arthritis. Special emphasis was placed on the clinical presentation grading at the time of presentation with associated etiological factors and exacerbating factors. All the patients were also subjected to necessary blood investigations and relevant radiological investigations.

Results: Among the total 100 cases of RA, maximum incidence of rheumatoid arthritis was seen in the age group of 31 – 40 years (46%) and 41-50 years (30%). The commonest clinical features noted was joint pain (100%), commonest joint involved was proximal interphalangeal and metacarpophalangeal joints (96%), commonest upper limb deformity was ulnar deviation of digits (40%) and commonest radiological changes were juxta articular osteopenia and soft tissue swelling (74%). Rheumatoid arthritis factor was positive in 76 % (76 cases) and Anti CCP was positive in 94% (94 cases) of the patients.

Conclusion: It is concluded from the present study that most common predisposing factors were family history and smoking and commonest exacerbating factor was climatic changes. The most common clinical features are morning stiffness, joint pain, joint swelling and limitation of joint movement.