Question

Which are the non-articular manifestations of rheumatoid arthritis?

• A. [(A)] \textbf{Pericarditis}
• B. [(B)] \textbf{Sjogren's syndrome}
• C. [(C)] \textbf{Cervical myelopathy}
• D. [(D)] \textbf{Z-deformity} \textbf{Choose the correct answer from the options given below :}

Hint:

\textbf{Rheumatology: Extra-articular RA.} Remember that rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic disease, and its effects can extend beyond the joints. Being aware of these non-articular manifestations is important for comprehensive management and recognizing potential complications.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints but can also involve various extra-articular organs and tissues. Let's analyze each of the listed manifestations: (A) Pericarditis: Inflammation of the pericardium (the sac surrounding the heart) is a well-recognized non-articular manifestation of RA. (B) Sjogren's syndrome: This is another autoimmune disorder characterized by dry eyes and dry mouth, often occurring as a comorbidity with RA (secondary Sjogren's syndrome), making it a non-articular manifestation associated with RA. (C) Cervical myelopathy: This refers to spinal cord compression in the neck, often due to atlantoaxial subluxation (misalignment of the first and second cervical vertebrae) caused by rheumatoid involvement of the cervical spine. While it affects bony structures (vertebrae), the primary clinical consequence is neurological (spinal cord), classifying it as a non-articular manifestation. (D) Z-deformity: This is a specific deformity of the thumb, characterized by flexion at the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint and hyperextension at the interphalangeal (IP) joint. Deformities like Z-deformity, swan neck deformity, and boutonniere deformity are considered articular manifestations of RA as they directly involve the joints. Therefore, the non-articular manifestations of rheumatoid arthritis among the given options are Pericarditis (A), Sjogren's syndrome (B), and Cervical myelopathy (C).