ALTERATIONS IN CELLULAR PROCESSES

Post an explanation of the disease highlighted in the scenario you were provided. Include the following in your explanation:

· The role genetics plays in the disease.

· Why the patient is presenting with the specific symptoms described.

· The physiologic response to the stimulus presented in the scenario and why you think this response occurred.

· The cells that are involved in this process.

· How another characteristic (e.g., gender, genetics) would change your response.

Scenario 1: Patient is a 48-year-old male with complaints of stiffness in his fingers that migrates to his upper arm joints and increased fatigue over the last few months.  The patient works in a bank and types frequently.  He commented that he thought he could have carpal tunnel syndrome, but the fatigue was beginning to worry him.  The patient reports a family history of rheumatoid arthritis.  He is currently taking Motrin for pain which partially relieves the symptoms.  He rates his pain a 5/10 at present, aching in both hands.  The patient’s vital signs are 120/80, Pulse 78, Res 16, Temp 100.1 F.  He denies any recent weight changes.  Physical exam reveals:  Edema to 4th and 5th PIP joints bilaterally with tenderness in the same joints.  His grip strength is decreased bilaterally. No edema of knees or ankles noted.