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Rheumatoid Arthritis: Explained With Pictures

By Carol & Richard Eustice, About.com

Updated October 21, 2006

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

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Rheumatoid Arthritis - Systemic Disease

ADAM
Rheumatoid arthritis not only affects the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic disease which may also affect other organs of the body including the skin, lungs, heart, and kidneys.

Rheumatoid arthritis is more prevalent in women than men. Interestingly, rheumatoid lung disease occurs more frequently in men who are positive for rheumatoid factor, have subcutaneous nodules, and a long disease course.

Rheumatoid arthritis patients also have a higher risk of coronary heart disease than people in the general population.

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