rheumatoid arthritis

noun

: a usually chronic autoimmune disease that is characterized especially by pain, stiffness, inflammation, swelling, and sometimes destruction of joints

—abbreviation RA compare osteoarthritis

Examples of rheumatoid arthritis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Along with her gastroparesis, Jacqueline has Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a connective tissue disorder, as well as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, trigeminal neuralgia (a neurological facial pain disorder) and primary immunodeficiency. —Brian Brant, Peoplemag, 7 Sep. 2024

May Reduce Joint Pain and Inflammation Consuming palo azul might alleviate the joint pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). —Devineé Lingo, M.s., Rdn, Health, 6 Sep. 2024

AbbVie is best known for its blockbuster drug – Humira – used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn’s disease, among others. —Trefis Team, Forbes, 3 Sep. 2024

Enbrel The Immunex Corporation's Enbrel treats rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. —Maia Pandey, Journal Sentinel, 16 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1859, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

rheumatoid arthritis

noun

: a usually chronic disease that is considered an autoimmune disease and is characterized especially by pain, stiffness, inflammation, swelling, and sometimes destruction of joints

—abbreviation RA

called also atrophic arthritis

compare osteoarthritis