Alternative Names
RA
Symptoms & Characteristics
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition and is characterized by pain, swelling, stiffness and loss of function in joints. It can affect any joint but is common in the wrist and fingers.
More women than men get rheumatoid arthritis. Symptoms often begin between ages 25 and 55. Symptoms can worsen, resolve, or last a lifetime.
Treatment
There is currently no cure for RA. Treatment may include medications, lifestyle changes and surgery. These treatments may slow or stop joint damage and reduce pain and swelling.
If someone notices or experiences any of the signs or symptoms common to RA, it is important to see a doctor.
How Common Is It?
Rheumatoid arthritis affects over 2.1 million Americans.
Genetics & Inheritance
The causes of rheumatoid arthritis are largely unknown. RA is most likely a multifactorial condition, which means it involves a combination of genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors. Hormonal factors have also been proposed to contribute to RA.
It is currently well established that RA also runs in some families. Researchers believe that there are probably a number of genes that affect the development and symptoms of RA.
- Researchers have identified that certain variations of the HLA-DRB1 gene increase the risk to develop RA. DRB1 is part of a family of genes called the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) complex located on chromosome 6. There are many different variations of the HLA genes and they all determine and govern how our immune systems function.
- Some of the other genes that have been associated with RA susceptibility include; PTPN22 (1p13), TRAF1 (9q33-q34) and C5 (9q34.1) and PADI4 (1p36.13). PAD14, however, is thought to contribute to rheumatoid arthritis risk primarily in people of East Asian descent.
- Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are small variations in a single "letter" of DNA that can be found throughout our entire genetic make-up. Some researchers have proposed that specific SNPs may influence the risk to develop RA in some people. How these SNPs contribute to RA is unclear and much of this research is considered preliminary at this point. Research is currently often limited to specific ethnic groups, and studies among different ethnic groups have sometimes been inconclusive or even conflicting. Further research is needed to clearly establish associations.
- Other yet to be identified or adequately classified genes may also contribute to RA.
A genetic consultation with a trained genetic professional may be beneficial in discussing the benefits and limitations of genetic testing as well as recurrence risk.
Genetic Testing
Clinical genetic testing for susceptibility to RA (the HLA-DRB1 variations) may be available through an in person genetic consultation for people who are considered at risk. Use our find a genetic professional directory to locate a trained genetic professional in your area.
Informational genetic testing for RA susceptibility is available online (over the internet) as part of a whole genome scan. Go to the Tests tab to link to providers, compare providers and read provider reviews.
- At this point, many genetic professionals do not consider this testing clinically useful or medically relevant, but for informational purposes only.
Support & More Information
More information can be found at:
Support can be found at: