Joints of hand are not affected in-
**Core Concept**
The joints of the hand are a complex network of synovial joints that provide a wide range of motion and flexibility to the hand. The joints of the hand are divided into three groups: carpometacarpal joints, intermetacarpal joints, and intercarpal joints.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The joints of the hand are not affected in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) until the disease is quite advanced. This is because the primary target of RA is the synovium of the larger joints, such as the knees, elbows, and wrists. The synovium of the hand joints is relatively resistant to the inflammatory effects of RA, allowing the joints to remain relatively unaffected until the disease has progressed.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is incorrect because rheumatoid arthritis can affect the joints of the hand, particularly the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) and metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints.
* **Option B:** This option is incorrect because osteoarthritis (OA) can affect the joints of the hand, particularly the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints.
* **Option C:** This option is incorrect because psoriatic arthritis (PsA) can affect the joints of the hand, particularly the DIP joints.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that the joints of the hand are relatively resistant to the inflammatory effects of rheumatoid arthritis until the disease has progressed, making it a key differentiator from other forms of arthritis.
**Correct Answer: D. All of the above. None of the joints of the hand are typically affected in rheumatoid arthritis until the disease is quite advanced.**