Answer :
Final answer:
Rheumatoid arthritis is often considered a degenerative disease due to its progressive nature, where the immune system attacks the body's own tissues, leading to joint degeneration. The chronic inflammation and damage cause joint deformities and loss of function.
Explanation:
Rheumatoid Arthritis as a Degenerative Disease
Rheumatoid arthritis is often considered a degenerative disease due to its progressive nature. It is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, primarily affecting the joints. Over time, this continuous inflammation and damage to the joint tissues can lead to degeneration of the joints and surrounding structures.
For example, in rheumatoid arthritis, the synovium (the lining of the joints) becomes thickened and inflamed. This causes excessive production of synovial fluid, which can erode cartilage, bone, and other structures in the joint. The chronic inflammation also leads to the formation of abnormal tissue called pannus, which further destroys the joint.
Additionally, the degenerative aspect of rheumatoid arthritis can be seen in the gradual progression of symptoms. A person with rheumatoid arthritis may initially experience joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. As the disease progresses, the joints can become deformed, resulting in limited mobility and loss of function.
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