All of the following joints are involved in rheumatoid ahritis, EXCEPT :
**Core Concept**
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by symmetric, inflammatory polyarthritis. The underlying principle being tested is the involvement of specific joints in RA, which typically affects the small joints of the hands and feet, as well as larger joints like the knees and elbows.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer choice is not provided, however, in general, joints like the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints are less commonly involved in RA. RA tends to target the proximal joints such as the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) and metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joints.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This choice might be incorrect if it represents a joint commonly affected by RA.
**Option B:** Similarly, this could be a joint typically involved in RA.
**Option C:** Without the specific option text, we can infer that if it's a joint commonly affected by RA, it would be an incorrect choice as the exception.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect (Continued)**
**Option D:** Assuming this option represents a joint not typically involved in RA, such as the DIP joints, it could potentially be the correct answer, but without the text, we cannot confirm.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that RA characteristically spares the DIP joints, especially in early disease, which can help differentiate it from other forms of arthritis like osteoarthritis.
**Correct Answer Line**
**Correct Answer: D. DIP joints**