Autoimmune joint disease is one of the causes of inflammatory joint disorder. This is a condition where the body’s own defense system ( the immune system) malfunctions and creates inflammation in the joints. It usually causes pain, stiffness, and swelling of the joints. It can affect multiple joints simultaneously but could also affect just a single joint. Common autoimmune joint disease includes Rheumatoid arthritis, Psoriatic arthritis, Reactive arthritis, and Ankylosing spondylitis. 

 

Inflammatory joint diseases as a whole have the potential to cause irreversible joint damage. Hence, the importance of accurate diagnosis and early treatment. A Rheumatologist will usually carry out a consultation, followed by physical examination and investigations in the form of blood tests and scans. Common scans include x-rays, ultrasounds, CT, and MRI scans.