Gout, with a section on ocular disease in the gouty

by Llewellyn J. Llewellyn

Rheumatoid Arthritis

This affection differs from the foregoing disorder as well as gout in that it is most commonly met with in persons under forty years of age. Moreover, it attacks women much more frequently than men. Of polyarticular distribution, it evinces a marked tendency to symmetrical invasion. Like gout, it has a pronounced preference for the smaller joints, while, similarly, it avoids the hip and shoulder.

Constitutional symptoms are conspicuous: pulse quickened, temperature raised, extreme wasting not uncommon. Intense and widespread muscular atrophy with contracture is a prominent feature, also trophic disturbances of varied nature and degree.