Orthopaedic Nurses Certification Board (ONCB) Metabolic/Inflammatory/Tumors Practice Exam

Which sign is suggestive of active inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis?

1. Joint stiffness in the morning

2. Symmetrical joint swelling

3. Weakness in legs

4. Sun sensitivity

The correct answer is: Symmetrical joint swelling

Symmetrical joint swelling is indeed a classic sign suggestive of active inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis. In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovial membrane, causing inflammation that often leads to swelling, warmth, and tenderness in the affected joints. The symmetry of the swelling, which typically affects similar joints on both sides of the body (like wrists, knees, and hands), is a distinguishing feature of rheumatoid arthritis compared to other forms of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis, where joint involvement may be more unilateral. While morning joint stiffness is also associated with rheumatoid arthritis, it is a result of the inflammatory process rather than a direct indicator of ongoing inflammation at the moment. Weakness in the legs might be attributed to various causes and is not a specific sign of active inflammation in this context. Sun sensitivity is more commonly associated with conditions like lupus rather than rheumatoid arthritis. Therefore, the presence of symmetrical joint swelling is a more direct and significant indicator of active inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis.