arthrites

Arthrites is not a standard term in English. It may reflect a misspelling or misinterpretation of arthritides, the plural form of arthritis, or occasionally a non-English variant. The more common subject is arthritis, a broad group of conditions characterized by joint inflammation.

Arthritis refers to inflammation of one or more joints, causing pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced range of motion. It can result from wear and tear, autoimmune processes, infection, or crystal deposition, among other causes. Symptoms often affect hands, knees, hips, and spine and may be intermittent or persistent.

Major forms include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, gout, infectious arthritis, and juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Osteoarthritis stems from degenerative joint changes; rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease; psoriatic arthritis is associated with psoriasis; gout arises from urate crystal buildup; infectious arthritis results from pathogens; juvenile arthritides affect children.

Diagnosis combines medical history, physical examination, imaging such as X-ray or MRI, and laboratory tests (inflammatory markers, autoantibodies like rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP, uric acid levels, or synovial fluid analysis).

Treatment aims to relieve symptoms, maintain joint function, and slow disease progression. It often involves medications such as NSAIDs and analgesics for pain, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs for autoimmune forms, biologic agents, and, for gout, urate-lowering therapy. Non-pharmacologic approaches include physical therapy, exercise, weight management, heat or cold therapy, and assistive devices; surgery may be considered in advanced cases.

Prognosis varies by type and severity. Osteoarthritis is common with aging, while autoimmune forms can be progressive but may respond to early, targeted therapy. Arthritis overall remains a leading cause of disability worldwide, highlighting the importance of early recognition and comprehensive management.