Fast Facts
- Studying twins has proven very helpful in examining the genetic and environmental influences that may cause rheumatic disease.
- Ankylosing spondylitis and rheumatoid arthritis appear to have identifiable genes that play a substantial role in passing the disease to a child.
- Recent findings are leading to new knowledge about the causes of arthritis diseases that could potentially lead to new treatment strategies in the future.
- The clustering of multiple and different autoimmune diseases is observed frequently in the same families, suggesting existence of shared susceptibility genes among these diseases.
Note: Because of the technical nature of this topic, you may wish to consult with your physician if you have questions after reading this information.
