Journal of Orthopaedic Nursing
Volume 9, Issue 2 , Pages 64-76, May 2005

Immunogenetics and rheumatoid arthritis: A review for orthopaedic nurses

  • James A. Rankin, RN, RNT, ACNP, BSc (Hons), MSc, PhD (Associate Professor and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)

      Affiliations

    • Corresponding Author InformationTel.: +1 403 220 2732; fax: +1 403 284 4803

Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alta., Canada T2N 1N4

Editor’s comments Genetics and immunology are increasingly taking on a pivotal and major importance in health care. Linking these to Rheumatoid Arthritis emphasises the significance. Some readers will find this article very comprehensive but it is not intended that all aspects should be fully understood it is the principles that are of import particularly in future health care development. However, expert nurses in the field will find the detail relevant and enlightening.

Summary 

Many orthopaedic nurses, in their clinical practice, care for individuals experiencing rheumatoid arthritis (RA). While the precise aetiology of RA is unknown nursing interventions are generally aimed at helping individuals to cope with their condition and at providing patient/family education. It is important, therefore, for orthopaedic nurses to have an understanding of the immunogenetics of RA. The role of immunogenetics in the predisposition of individuals to RA is discussed and important concepts such as the molecular mimicry hypothesis and the role of certain cytokines.

Keywords: Orthopaedic nursing, Rheumatoid arthritis, Immunogenetics

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PII: S1361-3111(05)00016-6

doi:10.1016/j.joon.2005.02.001

Journal of Orthopaedic Nursing
Volume 9, Issue 2 , Pages 64-76, May 2005

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