Arthritis is the number-one cause of disability in the U.S., and this encyclopedia, written for the lay reader as well as the professional, covers all aspects of the subject. Included are definitions of specific types of arthritis along with their symptoms, causes, diagnoses, and treatments, whether nonpharmacological, proven pharmacological, or surgical.Written by two experienced medical doctors, this addition to the Facts On File Library of Health and Living provides reliable, comprehensive coverage of the topic in an accessible A-Z format. Most articles give the history of the term, symptom, or disease, some of which have been identified from ancient times, while others have been diagnosed only within the last 10 years. Clear explanations of the various clinical types of arthritis, among them osteoarthritis, crystal-induced arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and connective tissue disorders, aid the reader. An appendix gives information on drugs that are used in the treatment of arthritis and includes trade name, side effects, and excellent see references. Lists of laboratory and diagnostic tests, general and specific Web sites, a glossary of abbreviations and medical terms, and a bibliography are also provided. The index cites information in the appendixes as well as the encyclopedia portion of the book.