Rheumatoid nodules

Rheumatoid nodules

As part of the rheumatoid process, firm, non-tender, subcutaneous nodules develop in about 25 percent of rheumatoid arthritis patients. These are commonly found at pressure points like the elbow, back of the forearm, and metacarpophalangeal joint. Nodules usually occur in chronic active cases of rheumatoid arthritis, and are commonly associated with more joint deformity and serious extra-articular manifestations including lungs, eyes, and blood vessels. Nodules may vary in size during the course of the disease process,

Complications of rheumatoid nodules

pain
limited joint mobility
neuropathy
ulceration
fistula formation
infection

Surgical removal is an option, but nodules tend to reoccur in as little as a few months when they are present over an area of repeated trauma.