Which feature is associated with the pathophysiology of rheumatoid arthritis?

• A. Decreased inflammatory leukocytes
• B. Pronounced angiogenesis
• C. Decreased cellular hyperplasia
• D. No changes in cell surface

Answer: (B)

In rheumatoid arthritis, chronic inflammation of the joint drives the growth of new blood vessels in the synovium. This angiogenesis supports the expanding pannus by delivering oxygen, nutrients, and more inflammatory cells, fueling ongoing destruction of cartilage and bone. Cytokines like TNF-alpha and IL-1 promote factors such as VEGF that stimulate neovascularization, making pronounced angiogenesis a key feature of the disease process. In contrast, the joint typically shows increased inflammatory cells, hyperplasia of the synovial lining, and changes in cell-surface markers rather than a lack of changes, so the angiogenesis aspect best reflects the pathophysiology.