Abstract
Inflammatory arthritis is an umbrella term used to describe a range of conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis and reactive arthritis. These are autoimmune diseases in which joint and systemic features are present in varying degrees between disease processes and individuals. Delayed diagnosis can lead to irreversible joint destruction and dysfunction but a therapeutic revolution has transformed its prognosis. Ever-expanding therapeutic options require GPs to recognize these conditions, manage symptoms and undertake drug monitoring. The costs to individuals, their families and the National Health Service are high. There were 1.9 million GP consultations for inflammatory arthritis in 2000 and nearly 46000 hospital admissions. The challenge in primary care is to recognize an inflammatory arthritis early and refer to secondary care.
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