Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of the synovium simulating rheumatoid arthritis.
Skeletal involvement in patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) is common, although direct involvement of the joints is unusual. We describe 2 adults who presented with features suggestive of a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, but who were found to have diffuse NHL of the synovium. Results of a review of the literature, and assessment of the few similar cases in which NHL presented in the joint, suggest that the lymphoma may mimic either a monarticular or polyarticular synovitis, without lymphadenopathy or hepatosplenomegaly. Radiographic demonstration of associated bone destruction is the best evidence for non-Hodgkin's lymphomatous arthropathy in patients with rheumatic symptoms.
D000368:Aged; D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000175:diagnosis*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007592:Joint Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D007719:Knee Joint; D008228:Lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013583:Synovial Membrane / Q000473:pathology