A patient’s immune system is attacking his arterial cartilage resulting in rheumatoid arthritis this is an example of one of the following
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is autoimmune disorder.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder, meaning that the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. In this case, the immune system targets the synovium, which is the lining of the joints, and can lead to inflammation and damage to the cartilage and bones in the joints. The body’s immune system is designed to protect against foreign invaders like bacteria and viruses. However, in autoimmune diseases like RA, the immune system fails to distinguish between foreign and self cells, causing it to attack healthy tissues as if they were harmful pathogens.
In RA, the immune system produces antibodies that attack the synovium, causing inflammation. This inflammatory response results in the thickening of the synovium, which can damage the cartilage that cushions the joints and even the bones over time. As a result, individuals with RA often experience pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced range of motion in the affected joints. Over time, if the inflammation is not controlled, it can lead to joint deformities and long-term disability.
RA can affect any joint, but it most commonly affects the joints of the hands, wrists, and knees. The exact cause of RA is not completely understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Certain genes may predispose individuals to RA, and triggers such as infections or environmental factors like smoking can contribute to the development of the disease.
Treatment for RA typically includes medications to control inflammation, relieve pain, and slow down the progression of the disease. This may involve disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologics, and corticosteroids, along with physical therapy to maintain joint function.