Rheumatoid arthritis is a genetic inflammatory arthritis disease involving multiple joints and organs, such as the lungs, heart, and kidneys. People with this condition have symptoms like joint pain, swelling, fatigue, or stiffness. However, there are many diseases that can mimic the symptoms of arthritis. A blood test for rheumatoid factor gives the diagnosis, but not all cases are positive for rheumatoid arthritis. We spoke to Dr Venuthurla Ram Mohan Reddy, Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Robotic and Navigation Surgeon, Lower Limb Services, Hip and Knee Surgery, Clinical Director, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, who listed diseases that have symptoms similar to Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Diseases That Mimic Rheumatoid Arthritis
According to research in the Annals of Rheumatic Diseases, more than 40% of those who have RA actually have another disease. Dr Reddy listed the diseases as follows:
Gout
Dr Reddy said, “High uric acid levels cause gout, which involves the peripheral joints. Inflammation of the joints can resemble Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). However, gout does not significantly affect the systemic systems.” Gout can cause kidney stones, unlike rheumatoid arthritis. Basic blood tests and analysis of fluid aspirated from the joint help differentiate gout from rheumatoid arthritis.
Sarcoidosis
Dr Reddy informed, “Sarcoidosis is a granulomatous disease that affects many systems, including joints, lungs, and skin, similar to rheumatoid arthritis. Sarcoidosis patients may have a positive rheumatoid factor, and the diagnosis is made by a biopsy of the lesion.”
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Lyme Disease
Dr Reddy said, “Lyme disease is caused by bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted to humans through tick bites. This disease typically affects the joints, heart and nervous system. A skin rash called erythema migrans is typical for lyme disease. This disease is diagnosed by doing blood tests and is cured by antibiotics.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis affecting joints is a disease that can mimic all the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Dr Reddy added, "Destruction of the joints looks very similar to rheumatoid disease. Skin lesions are characteristic of psoriasis and sometimes can be well hidden under the hair in the scalp areas. Involvement of nails is typical in psoriasis but not in RA." According to a journal published in Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives, psoriasis, which affects 2-4% of people in the West, has no known cure as of yet. Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA), a seronegative, chronic inflammatory musculoskeletal condition that typically manifests roughly ten years after the onset of psoriasis, affects 20-30% of psoriasis patients.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is one disease that is mainly systemic, but some symptoms and signs mimic rheumatoid arthritis. Involvement of kidneys and the neural system is more common in SLE, with a typical skin rash, especially on the face. Also, SLE is more life-threatening compared to RA.
Also Read: Rheumatoid Arthritis Can Affect Your Lungs Too: Expert Explains The Cause
Chikungunya
Dr Reddy said, “Involvement of the small joints in hands and feet can occur following viral fevers like chikungunya. This is an autoimmune reaction by the immune system that gradually settles with time. Some bacterial infections also cause autoimmune reactions resulting in joint inflammation, but these symptoms usually settle with time.”
Bottomline
It's crucial to learn about these diseases so you can be certain to give your doctor the most detailed account of your medical history. Finding a treatment that works for you requires ensuring an accurate diagnosis.
[Disclaimer: The information in this article is shared by a registered healthcare professional and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult with your expert for a proper diagnosis of the disease.]
Study Source: Annals of Rheumatic Diseases, Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives