B.T. is a 42-year-old woman who complains of increasing joint pain and stiffness in her hands, wrists, shoulders, and knees. She has been taking aspirin every 4 to 6 hours with little relief. Her physician suggests x-ray and blood studies to evaluate her joint dysfunction. Considering her age and symptoms, the physician believes B.T. may be suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. What are the major differences in symptoms between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis? ( List and explain at least 4 differences in the symptoms/presentation of RA versus osteoarthritis.) 2. What is the pathophysiology of rheumatoid arthritis? (Explain the pathophysiology of RA, including the general pathophysiology AND the 3 processes that lead to cartilage damage.) 3. What laboratory and other diagnostic tests would be helpful in confirming a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis? (List at least 4 laboratory or other diagnostic tests that would be helpful in confirming a diagnosis of RA.) 4. What treatment measures would be indicated in the management of rheumatoid arthritis? ( List and briefly describe 5 treatment measures/medications or educational interventions appropriate in the management of RA.)

B.T. is a 42-year-old woman who complains of increasing joint pain and stiffness in her hands, wrists, shoulders, and knees. She has been taking aspirin every 4 to 6 hours with little relief. Her physician suggests x-ray and blood studies to evaluate her joint dysfunction. Considering her age and symptoms, the physician believes B.T. may be suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. What are the major differences in symptoms between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis? ( List and explain at least 4 differences in the symptoms/presentation of RA versus osteoarthritis.) 2. What is the pathophysiology of rheumatoid arthritis? (Explain the pathophysiology of RA, including the general pathophysiology AND the 3 processes that lead to cartilage damage.) 3. What laboratory and other diagnostic tests would be helpful in confirming a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis? (List at least 4 laboratory or other diagnostic tests that would be helpful in confirming a diagnosis of RA.) 4. What treatment measures would be indicated in the management of rheumatoid arthritis? ( List and briefly describe 5 treatment measures/medications or educational interventions appropriate in the management of RA.)