arthritis
type: Concept
narrower: rheumatoid arthritis

concepts
type: Collection
type: ConceptGroup
member: rheumatoid arthritis

health and well-being
type: Concept
narrower: rheumatoid arthritis

rheumatic diseases
type: Concept
narrower: rheumatoid arthritis

rheumatoid arthritis
type: Concept
broader: systemic diseases
broader: rheumatic diseases
broader: health and well-being
broader: arthritis
definition: Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease that is characterized by stiffness, swelling, pain, and loss of motion in the joints. It is primarily characterized by inflammation of the synovium (or lining) of the joints and can lead to long-term joint damage, resulting in chronic pain, loss of function, and significant disability. [Source: Encyclopedia of Global Health; Rheumatoid Arthritis]

systemic diseases
type: Concept
narrower: rheumatoid arthritis