The management of rheumatoid nodules.
Rheumatoid nodules are present in approximately 25% of patients with seropositive rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and are the most common extra-articular lesions of this disease. Current methods of treatment include a variety of antirheumatic agents, surgical excision, or observation. Treatment options for the rheumatoid nodule are limited, due in part to the highly variable nature of the nodule. This series describes 4 seropositive RA patients, all with extensive rheumatoid nodules. Three were successfully treated by surgical excision, and 1 was successfully treated with conservative management. Surgical treatment is effective. Indications include local pain, nerve compression, limited range of motion, erosion, and infection.
Arnold
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Hamot Medical Center, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA.
D000368:Aged; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007239:Infections / Q000209:etiology; D008297:Male; D009408:Nerve Compression Syndromes / Q000209:etiology; D010146:Pain / Q000209:etiology; D018579:Patient Selection; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D012218:Rheumatoid Nodule / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*