Considering the distribution of B.T.’s joint dysfunction and her age, what is the most likely cause of this dysfunction?

B.T. is a 42-year-old woman who complains of increasing joint pain and stiffness in her hands, wrists, shoulders, and knees. She has been taking aspirin every 4 to 6 hours with little relief. Her physician suggests x-ray and blood studies to evaluate her joint dysfunction.

Discussion Questions

1. Considering the distribution of B.T.’s joint dysfunction and her age, what is the most likely cause of this dysfunction? What additional history or physical assessment data would support this diagnosis?

2. What laboratory tests would be helpful in confirming this diagnosis?

3. B.T.’s physician orders low-dose steroid therapy (prednisolone) as part of the treatment plan. What is the rationale for using this drug?