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Rheumatoid arthritis

Case contributed by Alborz Jahangiri
Diagnosis probable

Presentation

Pain, morning stiffness and symmetric swelling in the hands 6 weeks post partum.

Patient Data

Age: 29
Gender: Female
x-ray

There is periarticular osteopenia in relation to joints of the hand as well as the wrist bilaterally. There are small sub articular erosions of the PIP joints particularly of the index and middle fingers bilaterally. The joint spaces are narrowed in the proximal interphalangeal joints bilaterally. There is separation of the ulnar styloid processes bilaterally. There is narrowing of the radiocarpal joints bilaterally.

 

Case Discussion

Findings are indicative of an inflammatory arthropathy such as rheumatoid arthritis. A positive rheumatoid factor test supports the diagnosis. 

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