reumatoïde

Reumatoïde is a French medical adjective used to describe diseases related to rheumatism or autoimmune inflammatory processes affecting joints and connective tissue. It is most commonly encountered in the term polyarthrite rhumatoïde (rheumatoid arthritis), a chronic systemic inflammatory disease.

Polyarthrite rhumatoïde typically presents with symmetric pain, swelling, and morning stiffness in small joints of the hands and feet, lasting more than 30 minutes. Inflammation can cause joint damage and deformities. Extra-articular features may include rheumatoid nodules, lung involvement, and ocular inflammation. The condition has genetic predisposition and environmental triggers such as smoking; it usually begins in middle adulthood and is more common in women.

Diagnosis relies on clinical features, serology (anti-CCP antibodies and rheumatoid factor), inflammatory markers (ESR, CRP), and imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, MRI). Classification criteria from rheumatology associations guide diagnosis and assessment of disease activity.

Treatment aims to control inflammation and prevent joint damage while maintaining function. First-line DMARDs such as methotrexate are commonly used, often with folic acid supplementation. Biologic or targeted synthetic DMARDs are employed if response is inadequate. Short courses of corticosteroids and NSAIDs may help manage flares and pain. Regular physical therapy and lifestyle adjustments support long-term outcomes. Although not curable, early and sustained treatment can achieve remission or low disease activity for many patients.