Stages of Rheumatoid Arthritis

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Here is an explanation of the stages of RA taken from

http://www.healthscout.com/ency/68/120/main.html

1. First stage, synovitis (inflammation of the synovial membrane)

develops from congestion and edema of the synovial membrane (membrane

lining the capsule of a joint) and the joint capsule.

2. Formation of pannus (thickened layers of granulation tissue) marks

the onset of the second stage. Pannus covers and invades cartilage and

eventually destroys the joint capsule and bone.

3. Progression to the third stage is characterized by fibrous ankylosis

- fibrous invasion of the pannus and scar formation that occludes the

joint space. Bone atrophy and misalignment causes visible deformities

and disrupts the articulation of opposing bones, causing muscle atrophy

and imbalance and possibly, partial dislocations or subluxations.

4. In the fourth stage, fibrous tissue calcifies, resulting in bony

ankylosis and total immobility.

TERMINOLOGY:

Fibrosis -- Generation of fibrous tissue, such as in a scar.

Fibrous ankylosis -- Immobility and consolidation of a joint from

disease caused by fibrous tissue.

Fibrous tissue -- Tissue that is made up of fibers.