Rheumatoid arthritis(RA) is an autoimmune disease that targets joints and can have system-wide effects.
Illustration by Joules Garcia for Verywell Health
RA Nodule Symptoms
Rheumatoid nodules are masses of inflammatory tissue.
They can be a single mass or a cluster of what are called micro-nodules.
Illustration by Joules Garcia for Verywell Health
When multiple nodules form in one location, this is called accelerated nodulosis.
Around 7% of people with rheumatoid arthritis have nodules when they’re first diagnosed.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet New Zealandwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
Reproduced with permission from DermNet New Zealandwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
Rheumatoid nodules most commonly occur over bony areas and extensor joints.
Complications
On rare occasions, the skin over a nodule will become infected or ulcerated.
This tends to occur in areas that are subject to pressure on a regular basis.
It is thought that there may be a genetic component.
Certain factors are known to put you at a higher risk for developing nodules, however.
RF is present in around 80% of people with RA.
Some people without any known disorder, particularly older adults, have RF in their blood as well.
Patients who test positive for an antibody known as anti-CCP also have an increased risk of developing nodules.
Sometimes rheumatoid nodules may form on the scalp at the back of the head.
Differential Diagnoses
Having RA doesn’t mean that every bump is a rheumatoid nodule.
There is currently no way to predict which nodules will change or go away on their own.
Treatment is usually only necessary in the case of infection or ulceration.
Recurrence is also possible after steroid injections.
However, if your nodules bother you, talk to your healthcare provider about the available treatment options.
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