Rheumatoid nodules: MR/pathological correlation.
OBJECTIVE
To demonstrate the signal characteristics of subcutaneous rheumatoid nodules in correlation to their histopathologic features.


METHODS
The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of biopsy proven subcutaneous rheumatoid nodules are described in five patients with rheumatoid arthritis established by classic criteria.


RESULTS
Two morphologic appearances of rheumatoid nodules were observed on MRI: one predominantly cystic, with enhancing peripheral component; and a second type which is predominantly solid, with uniform enhancement following gadolinium injection.


CONCLUSIONS
Subcutaneous rheumatoid nodules can appear by MR as solid, cystic, or a combination of both components. This closely correlates with their histopathologic evolution.
el-Noueam
K I
KI
Department of Radiology, Alexandria University, Egypt.
Giuliano
V
V
Schweitzer
M E
ME
O'Hara
B J
BJ
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000175:diagnosis; D001706:Biopsy; D002111:Calcaneus / Q000473:pathology; D003287:Contrast Media; D003560:Cysts / Q000473:pathology; D005260:Female; D005347:Fibroblasts / Q000473:pathology; D005534:Foot Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D005682:Gadolinium; D019786:Gadolinium DTPA; D015726:Giant Cells / Q000473:pathology; D006644:Histiocytes / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D007089:Image Enhancement; D008264:Macrophages / Q000473:pathology; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008875:Middle Aged; D009942:Organometallic Compounds; D004369:Pentetic Acid / Q000031:analogs & derivatives; D012218:Rheumatoid Nodule / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D012867:Skin / Q000473:pathology
D003287:Contrast Media; D009942:Organometallic Compounds; D004369:Pentetic Acid; D005682:Gadolinium; D019786:Gadolinium DTPA