What is rheumatoid arthritis?

• A. A viral infection of the joints
• B. A degenerative wear-and-tear joint disease
• C. A temporary inflammatory condition after injury
• D. A chronic autoimmune disorder in which the joints and some organs of other body systems are attacked

Answer: (D)

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly targets the joints and can involve other body systems. This autoimmune attack causes persistent inflammation of the joint lining (the synovium), which can lead to swelling, pain, and stiffness, and over time may erode cartilage and bone. The condition is systemic, so it often affects multiple joints on both sides of the body and can involve organs such as the lungs or eyes.

This explains why the description fits best: it’s not a viral infection of the joints (that would be acute and self-limited), not a degenerative wear-and-tear condition like osteoarthritis (which is primarily due to aging and mechanical wear, not immune attack), and not a temporary inflammatory flare after an injury (which would resolve as healing completes). Rheumatoid arthritis persists over time and reflects an ongoing autoimmune process with potential systemic involvement.