Clinical diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis is made on the presence of five or more of the following symptoms - morning stiffness of joints, pain or tenderness in at least one joint, swelling in at least one joint, symmetric joint swelling, fatigue, weakness, weight loss, paresthesia, Raynaud's Syndrome, and subcutaneous nodules. Major organ involvement may lead to Pericarditis, Valvular Lesions, Vasculitis, Pneumonitis etc. The Rheumatoid factor is positive in a number of cases. Synovial analysis shows an opaque color of the fluid, increased volume and turbidity, decreased viscosity and complement, elevated WBC count with a predominance of polymorphonuclear cells. Complete blood count shows Hypochromic Anaemia and elevated WBC count.
Radiology shows soft tissue swelling, narrowed joint space and marginal erosions.
Additional tests to check for other autoimmune diseases are also done. Treatment and Prognosis Treatment for Osteoarthritis includes exercises like strengthening, stretching, balancing and other motion exercises, rest, massage and moist heat for pain, elastic bandages for support, prosthesis walkers to aid mobility, use of a firm bed and hard chairs, and use of sturdy, low-heeled shoes. Drugs like Aspirin, Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory drugs, and muscle relaxants are effective. Surgical intervention like Osteotomy, laminectomy, fusion, total joint replacement can be done if conservative therapy is not effective. Complications of osteoarthritis include involvement of the spine which can cause compression of the spinal cord leading to weakness in the extremities, incontinence of bowel and bladder, and impotence.