What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Rheumatoid Nodules, Unspecified Site

What is Rheumatoid Nodules? (Definition/Background Information)

• Rheumatoid Nodules are slow-growing benign tumors that can occur anywhere in the body. They commonly occur in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA, an autoimmune, inflammatory disorder). However, not all individuals with RA develop Rheumatoid Nodules
• The cause of Rheumatoid Nodules is generally unknown, even though the development of the condition is usually correlated with the severity of rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid Nodules can also be influenced by the presence of other immune-related disorders such as systemic lupus erythematosus and scleroderma
• The nodules are generally firm, painless, and range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters. Rheumatoid Nodules may be diagnosed through a physical examination and an association with RA (if present). A tissue biopsy may be performed to eliminate other similar conditions
• The treatment of Rheumatoid Nodules includes treating underlying conditions (autoimmune disorders) and surgical excision, if the tumors present cosmetic issues. The prognosis is generally excellent with proper treatment

Who gets Rheumatoid Nodules? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Rheumatoid Nodules mostly develop in adults with rheumatoid arthritis. However, it can develop in individuals of any age, including children
• It affects both males and females
• The condition occurs worldwide in all races and ethnic groups

Note: Not all individuals with rheumatoid arthritis develop Rheumatoid Nodules.

What are the Risk Factors for Rheumatoid Nodules? (Predisposing Factors)

The main risk factor for Rheumatoid Nodules is rheumatoid arthritis. Other risk factors for the condition may include autoimmune disorders such as:

• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
• Scleroderma
• Ankylosing spondylosis

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Rheumatoid Nodules? (Etiology)

• The causative factors of Rheumatoid Nodules development are not well known
• It occurs in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, studies have shown that only 1 in 4 individuals with RA develop Rheumatoid Nodules
• The development is usually correlated with the severity of RA. Individuals with high rheumatoid factor (RF) are at a higher risk
• It can be also influenced by the presence of SLE, scleroderma, and ankylosing spondylosis

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Rheumatoid Nodules?

The signs and symptoms of Rheumatoid Nodules may include:

• The presence of benign tumors that occur as multiple nodules below the skin (subcutaneous)
• They are slow-growing, firm, and painless
• The size of the nodules may range from a few mm to several cm
• The nodules usually occur in soft tissues and joints; frequently in the elbows and fingers
• Rheumatoid Nodules can occur in other organs, such as the heart, lungs, and pleura (necrotizing granulomas may be observed)
• Additionally, the signs and symptoms of accompanying RA (or other conditions) may be observed

How is Rheumatoid Nodules Diagnosed?

Rheumatoid Nodules is diagnosed using the following methods:

• A thorough physical examination correlated with a medical history of rheumatoid arthritis (or other autoimmune conditions)
• Skin biopsy: A skin biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. The pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis

Note: Rheumatoid Nodules are usually biopsied to rule out other tumors (benign or cancerous).

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Rheumatoid Nodules?

Rheumatoid Nodules may result in the following complications:

• Decreased mobility and limitation of movements of the affected joint, if the tumor occurs near a joint
• It may result in cosmetic issues in some individuals depending upon the nodule location
• Other complications due to rheumatoid arthritis or other underlying disorders

How is Rheumatoid Nodules Treated?

The treatment measures available for Rheumatoid Nodules include:

• In some cases, the healthcare provider may recommend a ‘wait and watch’ approach and observe progress of the condition
• A complete surgical excision (an excisional open biopsy) is the preferred method of removal of the nodules. It may be performed if there are cosmetic issues, or if the tumors affect the free movement of joints
• Follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are important and encouraged

The treatment measures for Rheumatoid Nodules may also include undertaking a proper control of underlying rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, scleroderma, or ankylosing spondylosis.

How can Rheumatoid Nodules be Prevented?

• Rheumatoid arthritis does not always lead to Rheumatoid Nodules and not all individuals with longstanding autoimmune disorders may be affected by this benign condition. However, ensuring a proper control of RA (or other underlying conditions) may help prevent Rheumatoid Nodules
• If there is an early, aggressive, and proper treatment of this inflammatory disorder (RA), then its progression may be slowed down or decreased

What is the Prognosis of Rheumatoid Nodules? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Rheumatoid Nodules is generally excellent with adequate treatment
• However, the prognosis also depends upon the severity of underlying rheumatoid arthritis (or other conditions)
• Adequately treating the underlying condition (autoimmune disorder) can help control the size of the nodules and decrease the risk of formation of new nodules

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Rheumatoid Nodules:

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic auto-immune systemic inflammatory disorder that may affect the lining of joints, surrounding tissues, or organs within the body

The following link will help you understand rheumatoid arthritis better:

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis-ra/