Rheumatoid arthritis Dx, bariatric surgery and mortality, prostate cancer screening
Current Psychiatry. 2008 May;07(05):61-63
May 1, 2008|Current Psychiatry
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Practice Points
- Although most psychiatrists do not diagnose and treat a patient for RA, a basic understanding of diagnostic criteria can inform your decision to refer your patient to a primary care practitioner.
- Many patients with RA also suffer from depression and anxiety and should be assessed for psychiatric disorders. Consider ordering anti-CCP and serum RF tests when you suspect a patient has RA.
- The anti-CCP test is associated with fewer false-positive results than RF serum tests.
- Early morning stiffness that lasts ≥1 hour and symmetrical MCP and PIP joint pain can indicate RA.
Related resources
- American College of Rheumatology. www.rheumatology.org.
- Arthritis National Research Foundation. www.curearthritis.org.
Disclosure
Dr. McCarron is a consultant to Eli Lilly and Company.
