The severity of skin involvement indicates how severe the disease is.
In addition, the medications that treat RA may also affect the skin.
It also reviews possible treatments.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
DMARDs and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may cause rashes and hives.
This is generally an allergic reaction and should be brought to the attention of your healthcare provider.
NSAIDs and DMARDs may also cause sun sensitivity.
DermNet / CC BY-NC-ND
Aspirin and corticosteroids are known for interfering with blood clotting.
They may also thin out the skin and cause bruising.
Hives (Unrelated to Medication Use)
Some people with RA experience recurrenthiveson their skin.
DermNet / CC BY-NC-ND
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They range from about the size of a pea to the size of a golf ball.
Rheumatoid nodules affect up to 30% of people with RA.
Small nodules usually do not need treatment.
Treatment for large nodules includesdisease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs(DMARDs) orcorticosteroid shotsto help reduce their size.
Some people may need surgery to remove nodules that become extremely large, painful, and/or infected.
It can also damage and destroy the skin and underlying tissues.
Rheumatoid vasculitis occurs in around 2% to 5% of people with RA.
This complication is more common in people who have had severe rheumatoid arthritis for a long period of time.
Treatment of RV is dependent on its severity.
Prednisone is a first-line option.
Controlling RA, generally, is the best way to manage RV.
If RV has caused ulcers and affected organs, cyclophosphamide, a chemotherapy agent, is considered treatment.
Livedo reticularis rashes tend to be harmless and are more common in colder weather.
Treatment of Skin Issues
Some skin issues may require treatment, while others might not.
The options that will be considered depend on the cause and severity of your issue.
NSAIDs, including Advil (ibuprofen), can help control and reduce inflammation.
Severe pain may need prescription NSAIDs.
Corticosteroids can also help reduce skin inflammation, but these medications cannot be used in the long term.
If there is a possibility of infection, a topical or oral antibiotic may be prescribed.
Hives are usually treated withantihistamines.
Summary
Rheumatoid arthritis can sometimes cause skin problems.
The most common RA-related skin condition is rheumatoid nodules.
Some other skin conditions people with RA may experience include vasculitis, hives, and livedo reticularis.
The medication you take to treat your RA may also cause rashes and hives.
When this happens, it may indicate an allergic reaction, so be sure to consult your healthcare provider.
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The Vasculitis Foundation.Rheumatoid vasculitis.
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