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Rheumatoid arthritis — ABFM Board MCQ

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ModerateMusculoskeletal/Sports medicineRheumatoid arthritisABFM Board

A 42-year-old woman has 3 months of symmetric swelling and pain of the MCP and PIP joints with morning stiffness lasting 90 minutes. ESR is elevated. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: B — Rheumatoid arthritis

Symmetric inflammatory small-joint arthritis with prolonged morning stiffness suggests rheumatoid arthritis.

Reference: American Family Physician clinical reviews and AAFP guidance: https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp.html