A 46-year-old woman has a 3-month history of morning stiffness 1 hour, symmetrical swelling of MCP and PIP joints and positive anti-CCP antibodies. W...

Question

A 46-year-old woman has a 3-month history of morning stiffness >1 hour, symmetrical swelling of MCP and PIP joints and positive anti-CCP antibodies. What is the most appropriate management?

Accepted Answer

Refer promptly for initiation of disease-modifying antirheumatic drug therapy

Answer

Start NSAIDs alone and observe for a year

Answer

Reassure that symptoms will resolve spontaneously

Answer

Treat with long-term systemic steroids only

Answer

Delay referral until erosions are seen on X-ray

ca-mccqe1 MCQ (SBA): Rheumatoid arthritis

A 46-year-old woman has a 3-month history of morning stiffness >1 hour, symmetrical swelling of MCP and PIP joints and positive anti-CCP antibodies. What is the most appropriate management?