Tag: polyclonal antibodies

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a long-lasting autoimmune disease that causes pain and swelling in the joints. This means the immune system, which normally protects the body, starts attacking the body’s own joints by mistake. In RA, the immune system mainly attacks the synovium (a thin layer of tissue that lines the inside of joints). Unlike osteoarthritis (which is caused by wear and tear), RA occurs when the immune system attacks its own cells. Over time, this leads to: Swelling Pain Stiffness Warmth in the joints Joint damage and deformity The most common body parts that RA affects are small joints in the hands, wrists, and feet. But it can also affect elbows, knees, shoulders, and the neck.  RA usually affects both sides of the body at the same time. For examp...