Polyarteritis nodosa confined to calf muscles.
Two patients who developed pain and tenderness in their calf muscles, without other organ system involvement, are described. A gastrocnemius biopsy disclosed necrotizing muscular arteritis. Five other reported cases are reviewed and we conclude that there is a limited form of polyarteritis nodosa localized to calf muscles, with a differentiated and more benign clinical course, a differential diagnosis restricted to local pathological processes and prompt response to treatment with corticosteroids alone.
Service of Internal Medicine, Hospital Clinic i Provincial, University of Barcelona, Spain.
F
F
García
E
E
Pedrol
J
J
Casademont
B
B
Mellado
R
R
Córdoba
M
M
Cid
J M
JM
Grau
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000328:Adult; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007866:Leg; D008297:Male; D009132:Muscles / Q000473:pathology*; D010146:Pain / Q000473:pathology; D010488:Polyarteritis Nodosa / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000473:pathology*
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones