Hemochromatotic arthropathy mimicking rheumatoid arthritis. A case with subcutaneous nodules, tenosynovitis, and bursitis

Abstract

A 63-year-old man developed symmetrical polyarthritis, subcutaneous nodules at the elbows, olecranon bursitis, and recurrent tenosynovitis. He was later discovered to have idiopathic hemochromatosis. Staining of the subcutaneous nodule revealed iron deposits. These manifestations which are common to rheumatoid arthritis may be seen in hemochromatotic arthropathy.