Rheumatology Lab Exam Practice Flashcards

Ultra-high-yield vocabulary and diagnostic markers for major rheumatological and musculoskeletal conditions based on laboratory and imaging findings.

Gout

Condition characterized by uric acid $>6.8\,mg/dL$ and crystals in synovial fluid, presenting as acute monoarthritis (1st MTP) with punched-out erosions and tophi on imaging.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Symmetric MCP/PIP arthritis with morning stiffness $>1\,h$, laboratory findings of Anti-CCP+, RF+, and elevated ESR/CRP, and marginal erosions on X-ray.

Scleroderma

A condition involving Raynaud phenomenon, skin tightening, and dysphagia, with labs showing ANA+, Anti-centromere, or Anti-Scl-70, and imaging revealing acro-osteolysis.

Sjögren Syndrome

Presentation of dry eyes, dry mouth, and arthralgia associated with Anti-SSA/Ro, Anti-SSB/La, and ANA laboratory markers.

SLE (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus)

An autoimmune disease featuring a malar rash, photosensitivity, and nephritis; labs show ANA+, Anti-dsDNA, Anti-Sm, and decreased C3/C4 levels.

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Inflammatory back pain in young males characterized by bamboo spine and sacroiliitis on X-ray, and positive HLA-B27 results.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Arthritis associated with psoriasis, dactylitis, and nail pitting, showing pencil-in-cup deformities and fluffy periostitis on X-ray.

Reactive Arthritis

Asymmetric lower-limb arthritis commonly summarized by the phrase "Can't see, can't pee, can't climb a tree," often following a triggering infection.

Osteoarthritis

Degenerative joint disease with brief morning stiffness and pain that worsens with use; imaging shows joint-space loss, osteophytes, and subchondral sclerosis.

DISH (Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis)

A condition in older adults characterized by spinal stiffness and flowing anterior spinal ossification on X-ray with normal laboratory results.

Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Age $>50$ condition with shoulder and hip stiffness, markedly elevated ESR/CRP, and a dramatic response to low-dose prednisone ($12.5-25\,mg/day$).

Dermatomyositis

Proximal muscle weakness accompanied by heliotrope rash and Gottron papules; labs show elevated CK, aldolase, and anti-Mi-2.

Polymyositis

Symmetric proximal muscle weakness with labs showing elevated CK and anti-Jo-1, and MRI evidence of muscle inflammation.

Fibromyalgia

Condition of widespread pain, fatigue, and poor sleep with normal lab and imaging results; managed with exercise and Duloxetine $30-60\,mg/day$.

Osteoporosis

Defined by a DEXA T-score $\le -2.5$ and associated with fragility fractures and vertebral compression fractures.

ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis)

Neurological condition presenting with combined UMN and LMN signs and fasciculations; treated with Riluzole $50\,mg$ BID.