What joints are primarily affected by rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that primarily affects the small peripheral joints, which include the joints of the hands, wrists, and feet. These joints are typically the first to show signs of inflammation and damage in rheumatoid arthritis.

While larger joints can also be involved as the disease progresses, the hallmark presentation focuses on the small joints, making their early involvement characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis. As the disease advances, it may lead to symmetrical joint involvement and systemic symptoms, but the initial and most often affected areas are indeed the small peripheral joints. This differentiation is crucial for diagnosis and treatment planning, highlighting the importance of recognizing the patterns in joint involvement specific to rheumatoid arthritis.