Does my 45-year-old cousin's high CRP suggest RA?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am writing to ask about my 45-year-old cousin, who has been experiencing pain and stiffness in her joints for the past several months. It began with her fingers, and now her wrists and knees are affected. She also has dry, cracked skin and feels fatigued all the time. Her blood tests returned with an elevated CRP (C-reactive protein) (50) and a positive radiofrequency (80). She has also developed some lumps under the skin near her elbows. Based on her symptoms and test results,

Could this be rheumatoid arthritis with the possibility of rheumatoid nodules?
She struggles with daily activities and is afraid this will only worsen. What would be the best approach for diagnosis and treatment to prevent further joint damage?
Could early medication help to slow or stop the progression of this disease?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

According to your description, she is suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, symmetrical, inflammatory autoimmune disease that initially affects small joints, progressing to larger joints, and eventually the skin, eyes, heart, kidneys, and lungs. The bone and cartilage of joints are often destroyed, and tendons and ligaments weaken. All this damage to the joints causes deformities and bone erosion, usually very painful for a patient. Common symptoms of RA include morning stiffness of the affected joints for more than 30 minutes, fatigue, fever, weight loss, joints that are tender, swollen and warm, and rheumatoid nodules under the skin.

The goals of treatment for RA are to reduce joint inflammation and pain, maximize joint function, and prevent joint destruction and deformity. Treatment regimens consist of combinations of pharmaceuticals like steroids and painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, weight-bearing exercise, educating patients about the disease, and rest. She should take the help of a physiotherapist for exercise,

I would suggest visiting your nearby rheumatologist so that he can guide you properly,

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.