Which type of arthritis is categorized as an autoimmune disorder?

Rheumatoid arthritis is categorized as an autoimmune disorder because it occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own joint tissues. In rheumatoid arthritis, this immune response leads to inflammation of the synovial membrane, which can result in joint damage, pain, and swelling. This condition can also affect other parts of the body, such as the skin, eyes, lungs, and blood vessels, due to its systemic nature.

Other forms of arthritis differ in their mechanisms and underlying causes. For example, osteoarthritis primarily results from wear and tear on the joints over time, making it a degenerative joint disease rather than an autoimmune condition. Degenerative arthritis typically refers to osteoarthritis and does not involve the immune system attacking the joints. Gouty arthritis, on the other hand, is caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to acute inflammation, rather than an autoimmune response. Therefore, the specificity of rheumatoid arthritis as an autoimmune disorder highlights its unique classification among different types of arthritis.