Our Rheumatoid arthritis Main Article provides a comprehensive look at the who, what, when and how of Rheumatoid arthritis
Definition of Rheumatoid arthritisRheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune disease characterized by chronic inflammation of joints. Rheumatoid disease can also involve inflammation of tissues in other areas of the body, such as the lungs, heart, and eyes. Because it can affect multiple organs of the body, rheumatoid arthritis is referred to as a systemic illness. Although rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic illness, patients may experience long periods without symptoms. Also known as rheumatoid disease. Last Editorial Review: 3/30/2012 Back to MedTerms online medical dictionary A-Z List 
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