The USMLE Step 1 exam is going to test your ability to understand the basic sciences, but as we move forward the exam is become more and more clinical in nature, so it is essential that you learn how to combine the basic sciences with the clinical side of medicine. When it comes to Rheumatoid Arthritis on the Step 1 exam, there are a few important things you have to understand, namely: Main signs and symptoms, clinical findings, lab findings, and finally when and which medications to use to help you patient.

Here are the main topics we are going to cover to ensure your USMLE Step 1 theory for rheumatoid arthritis is covered completely:

1. The main signs and symptoms

2. The main extra-articular signs and symptoms

3. The expected lab findings of RA

4. The steps to proper management for RA

5. Important complications you must be aware of relating to RA

The Main Signs and Symptoms:

* Morning stiffness that lasts more than 1hr for at least 6 weeks
* Swelling of the wrists, PIP, or MCP joints for at least 6 weeks
* Symmetric joint swelling for at least 6 week
* Swelling of at least 3 joints for at least 6 weeks

Deformities involving the PIP and DIP joints include “Boutonniere deformity” and “Swan-Neck deformity”. The Boutonniere deformity is flexion of the PIP and extension of the DIP, while the Swan-Neck deformity is PIP extension with DIP flexion.

The Main extra-articular signs and symptoms

* Rheumatoid nodules (subcutaneous nodules)
* Caplan syndrome (rheumatoid nodules in the lungs)
* Tendon and ligament damage

» Read more: USMLE Step 1 Exam – Everything You Need To Know About Rheumatoid Arthritis