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Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune polyarthritis characterized by symmetric involvement of small joints (MCP, PIP, wrists) with prolonged morning stiffness and systemic inflammation. Extra-articular manifestations are common, reflecting systemic immune activation. Rheumatoid nodules—firm, non-tender subcutaneous swellings over pressure points (e.g., elbows)—are highly specific for RA and are associated with severe, seropositive disease. They consist of necrotizing granulomas with palisading histiocytes. Uveitis is more characteristic of seronegative spondyloarthropathies such as ankylosing spondylitis. Psoriatic plaques occur in psoriatic arthritis, not RA. Tophi (urate crystal deposits) are seen in chronic gout. Other RA complications include interstitial lung disease, pericarditis, anemia of chronic disease, and vasculitis. Early treatment with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) such as methotrexate is crucial to prevent irreversible joint damage.