Reuma

Reuma is a broad term used in several languages to refer to rheumatic diseases, a diverse group of conditions that affect the joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other connective tissues. The category includes inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmune spondyloarthropathies, and gout, as well as degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis, and non-inflammatory chronic pain syndromes like fibromyalgia.

Symptoms commonly include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, reduced range of motion, and fatigue. Inflammatory forms may present with systemic features such as fever or weight loss and can affect multiple joints over time; degenerative forms typically involve aging joints and localized pain. The presentation can vary widely between individuals and between specific diseases.

Diagnosis relies on clinical assessment supported by imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, MRI) and laboratory tests (inflammatory markers such as ESR/CRP, autoantibodies like rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP for rheumatoid arthritis, uric acid levels for gout). The differential diagnosis is broad and may include infections, metabolic disorders, or other musculoskeletal diseases.

Treatment aims to relieve pain, control inflammation, preserve joint function, and improve quality of life. It is tailored to the specific condition and may include non-pharmacologic approaches (physical therapy, exercise, weight management, smoking cessation, heat or cold therapy) and pharmacologic therapies such as NSAIDs for pain, corticosteroids for flares, and disease-modifying agents (DMARDs) or biologics for autoimmune forms. Surgical options may be considered in cases of advanced joint damage.

Prognosis varies by condition; some rheumatic diseases respond well to early and sustained treatment, while others are chronic and require long-term management. Education and multidisciplinary care are important components of optimal outcomes.