[Extra-articular manifestations of rheumatoid polyarthritis]

Abstract

Rheumatoid arthritis is mainly a chronic and disabling articular disease. If most patients do well (because of limited form or efficient treatment), in some cases they present with extra-articular rheumatoid arthritis. The clinical manifestations of extra-articular rheumatoid arthritis are wide, ranging from common and benign manifestations such as rheumatoid nodules to severe events such as Felty's syndrome or systemic vasculitis. The incidence of systemic rheumatoid arthritis seems cumulative over the course of the chronic disease, and the severity of individuals lesions when fully developed can be of major importance and even life threatening. A classification of the main features of extra-articular rheumatoid arthritis is given (even if not perfect), and the clinical manifestations are described.