Inflammatory Arthritis
What is it? There are many types of inflammatory arthritis. These include, but are not limited to rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, scleroderma, dermatomyositis or polymyositis, ankylosis spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, Reiter’s syndrome and arthritis associated with inflammatory bowel disease.
How does it present? They may all present with joint pain, stiffness and swelling. Each may also have other associated systemic signs.
Common exam findings: Other than joint effusion, the exam may be nonspecific.
Tests and treatment: Knee x-rays should be performed. Aspiration of the effusion may be necessary to further evaluate the arthritis. Evaluation with a rheumatologist may be needed.