1. Rheumatoid Arthritis Slideshow Pictures
2. Take the RA Quiz
3. Rheumatoid Arthritis Exercises Slideshow Pictures

Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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The American College of Rheumatology has developed a system for classifying rheumatoid arthritis based on X-ray changes and signs of joint injury. This system helps medical professionals determine the severity of your rheumatoid arthritis.

Stage I

• no damage seen on X-rays, although there may be signs of bone thinning

Stage II

• on X-ray, evidence of bone thinning around a joint with or without slight bone damage
• slight cartilage damage possible
• joint mobility may be limited; no joint deformities observed
• atrophy of adjacent muscle
• abnormalities of soft tissue around joint possible

Stage III

• on X-ray, evidence of cartilage and bone damage and bone thinning around the joint
• joint deformity without permanent stiffening or fixation of the joint
• extensive muscle atrophy
• abnormalities of soft tissue around joint possible

Stage IV

• on X-ray, evidence of cartilage and bone damage and osteoporosis around joint
• joint deformity with permanent stiffening or fixation of the joint (ankylosis)
• extensive muscle atrophy
• abnormalities of soft tissue around joint possible

Rheumatologists also classify the functional status of people with rheumatoid arthritis as follows:

• Class I: completely able to perform usual activities of daily living
• Class II: able to perform usual self-care and work activities but limited in activities outside of work (such as playing sports, household chores)
• Class III: able to perform usual self-care activities but limited in work and other activities
• Class IV: limited in ability to perform usual self-care, work, and other activities

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