Presentation
Rheumatoid arthritis diagnosed five years earlier. Lost to follow-up.
Patient Data
Age: 55 years
Gender: Female
From the case:
Advanced rheumatoid arthritis
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Striking, symmetric, erosive changes of the MCP-PIP, MTP-PIP joints, and the carpal joints (particularly on the right). Resultant subluxations in several joints. Sparing of the DIP joints.
Case Discussion
With the advent of disease modifying antiheumatic drugs and biological therapy advanced manifestations as shown here can be mostly avoided. Untreated and uncontrolled rheumatoid arthritis however has a sinister course with substantial reduction in the quality of life.