Rheumatoid arthritis. Complications beyond the joints.

In addition to affecting the joints, rheumatoid arthritis may wreak havoc on a number of organs in the body, including the heart, lungs, and eyes. Results of long-term studies suggest that morbidity and mortality increase in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. It is hoped that the new approach to pharmacologic treatment that uses aggressive medications shortly after onset of symptoms will alter the disease course, diminish morbidity, and eliminate the excess mortality seen in patients with long-standing rheumatoid arthritis.