The exact cause of Rheumatoid Arthritis is not clearly known. Medical advancement suggested that Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disorder, in which the immunity system (body defense system) of the body mistakenly attacks the joints. Because abnormal functioning of the immune system leads to inflammatory conditions. Chronic inflammation damage the joint structure. The specific reason behind the immune system misbehavior is unclear. But researchers expected that hormonal, genetic and environmental influences affect that immune system functioning.
Researchers identified some genes, which may involve in the development of the Rheumatoid Arthritis. HLA is a suspected genetic marker for Rheumatoid Arthritis pathologic condition. Because HLA acts as an immune response regulator. Other possible genetic involvements for Rheumatoid Arthritis include STAT4, TRAF1, C5, and PTPN22. The reasons behind identify these genes for development of the Rheumatoid Arthritis are all these genes have a connection with regulation of immune system functioning and activation or possess chronic inflammatory conditions or both.
But the activation of these genes triggers by some environmental factors; specifically, viral attacks consider as a responsible for triggering the involved genetic factors. Even environmental pollution including air pollution, exposure to harmful chemicals, cigarette smoking etc. also cause Rheumatoid Arthritis.
It has been also expected that the reason behind more Rheumatoid Arthritis in the female is due to hormonal influence. Other factors include obesity, physical or emotional traumatic condition increase the stress.
