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How does arthritis differ from rheumatism?

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Arthritis and rheumatism are not synonymous, though they are often confused due to overlapping symptoms like pain and stiffness.1

Arthritis is a specific, generic term for inflammatory joint disease. It involves inflammation of the joints, which can lead to swelling, redness, fluid effusion, and, in severe cases, the destruction of cartilage and bone, potentially resulting in ankylosis (fusion and loss of mobility).1
Rheumatism is a broader, less specific term that does not necessarily imply an inflammatory state. It refers to various conditions characterized by discomfort in the articular apparatus, including not only the joints but also muscles, bursas, ligaments, and tendons.123

While some specific diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, are categorized under the umbrella of rheumatic disorders due to their systemic nature and involvement of connective tissues, the two terms remain distinct in their clinical scope.345