OME - Rheumatology Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover key concepts, definitions, and clinical presentations from the rheumatology lecture notes, facilitating exam preparation.

What is the differential diagnosis in Rheumatology related to?

Joint pain and its associated diseases.

What factor primarily influences the classification of joint pain in Rheumatology?

The number of joints affected, their pattern, and symmetry.

Monoarticular involvement usually indicates what type of disease?

A disease affecting that specific joint without systemic involvement.

Polyarticular involvement typically suggests what type of disease?

Systemic disease.

What is the significance of symmetry in polyarticular diseases?

Absence of symmetry indicates degenerative conditions; presence indicates autoimmune conditions.

What is the first step to take when noting a red, hot, swollen joint?

Perform an Arthrocentesis.

What are the characteristics of a normal joint fluid analysis?

Should show a bunch of clear fluid without notable issues.

What does pus in a joint fluid sample indicate?

A septic joint, with characteristics of white opaque fluid, high cell count.

At what WBC count should one suspect a septic joint?

More than 50,000 WBCs.

What do crystals in joint fluid indicate?

Crystal disease, such as gout or pseudogout.

What is the purpose of antibodies in rheumatology diagnosis?

While mostly non-diagnostic, they can provide clues towards a diagnosis.

Which antibody is sensitive for lupus but not specific?

ANA (Antinuclear Antibody).

What is the significance of ds-DNA antibody in lupus?

It is specific for lupus and indicates renal involvement.

What does the SOAP BRAIN MD mnemonic help remember?

The 11 criteria for diagnosing Lupus.

What is the first drug choice for treating lupus?

Hydroxychloroquine.

What are common symptoms of lupus?

Malar rash, arthralgia, and serositis.

What does Libman-Sacks Endocarditis indicate?

It is pathognomonic for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE).

How is drug-induced lupus diagnosed?

By identifying anti-histone antibodies after stopping the offending drug.

What is a crucial test for lupus nephritis?

Renal biopsy.

What presentation signifies a septic joint?

Hot, swollen, and tender with acute onset.

What is the typical treatment for gout flares?

NSAIDs or Colchicine.

What dietary recommendations are made for gout management?

Avoid red meat and alcohol.

What is the condition known as pseudogout characterized by?

Positively birefringent rhomboid-shaped crystals in joint fluid.

What does scleroderma lead to in terms of tissue changes?

Collagen replacing smooth muscle and widespread collagen deposition.

Which antibodies are associated with scleroderma?

Anti-Scl-70 for diffuse disease and anti-centromere for CREST syndrome.

What are classic symptoms of Sjogren's syndrome?

Dry eyes (keratoconjunctivitis) and dry mouth (xerostomia).

What are common symptoms seen in polymyositis or dermatomyositis?

Proximal muscle weakness and specific rashes.

How is rheumatoid arthritis diagnosed?

Through clinical criteria, serology, and radiography findings.

What laboratory data supports the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis?

Positive Rheumatoid Factor or Anti-CCP.

What is the first-line treatment for rheumatoid arthritis?

Methotrexate.

What must be done before starting biologics for rheumatoid arthritis?

TB screening and vaccinations.

How do you differentiate seronegative spondyloarthropathies from others?

By their extra-articular involvement and links to inflammatory conditions.

What is the characteristic presentation of ankylosing spondylitis?

Lower back pain with morning stiffness that improves with use.

What is the treatment step for reactive arthritis linked to chlamydia?

Treat Chlamydia and provide NSAIDs for arthritis.

What is the classical presentation of Giant Cell Arteritis?

Unilateral temporal headache and tender swollen temporal artery in patients over 50.

How is polymyalgia rheumatica associated with Giant Cell Arteritis diagnosed?

By the presence of systemic inflammatory signs and response to steroids.

What is the main treatment for Kawasaki Disease?

IVIG and Aspirin.

Which type of vasculitis is Polyarteritis Nodosa (PAN) associated with?

Hepatitis B.

What is the hallmark of granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener’s)?

Renal, lung, and nasal involvement with c-ANCA positivity.

What is the significance of empty spaces found in x-ray imaging for ankylosing spondylitis?

Indicates sacroiliitis leading to the characteristic 'bamboo spine' appearance.

What is the core focus during treatment for vasculitis?

Aggressive immunosuppressive therapy.

How is Henoch-Schönlein Purpura (HSP) diagnosed?

By observing palpable purpura along with abdominal pain.

What is the primary goal of treatment across various rheumatological disorders?

Disease control and symptom alleviation.