A 49-year-old woman presents with symmetrical pain and stiffness in the small joints of the hands and wrists for 3 months, with morning stiffness last...

Question

A 49-year-old woman presents with symmetrical pain and stiffness in the small joints of the hands and wrists for 3 months, with morning stiffness lasting over an hour. RF and anti-CCP antibodies are positive. What is the most appropriate management?

Accepted Answer

Refer early to a rheumatologist and commence disease-modifying antirheumatic drug such as methotrexate

Answer

Start NSAIDs only and review in 6 months

Answer

Start long-term oral corticosteroids alone

Answer

Use complementary therapies only

Answer

Delay treatment until erosions are visible on X-ray

au-amc MCQ (SBA): Rheumatoid arthritis

A 49-year-old woman presents with symmetrical pain and stiffness in the small joints of the hands and wrists for 3 months, with morning stiffness lasting over an hour. RF and anti-CCP antibodies are positive. What is the most appropriate management?