Rheumatoid vasculitis: study of 41 cases

Abstract

Aim: To describe the clinical manifestations, evolution and treatment of patients with rheumatoid vasculitis.

Methods: Retrospective study (1975-2017) of all patients diagnosed with rheumatoid vasculitis in 2 Rheumatology Services.

Results: A total of 41 patients were included, 17 (41.5%) males and 24 (58.5%) females; mean age at diagnosis: 67 ± 9 years; duration of rheumatoid arthritis: 10 ± 8.3 years. Most patients had erosive disease, 33 (80%). Rheumatoid factor and anticitrullinated antibodies were positive in all patients. Constitutional symptoms were present in 30 (73%) patients and extra-articular manifestations in 17 (41%) patients. The clinical manifestations of rheumatoid vasculitis were mainly: cutaneous 28 (68%), and polyneuritis 26 (63%). All patients were treated with glucocorticoids. An immunosuppressant was associated in 24 (58.5%) patients. Five (12%) patients were treated with the association of glucocorticoids and a biologic treatment. The mortality after 2years of follow-up was 33%, the most common causes being infection and progression of the vasculitis. The frequency of rheumatoid vasculitis has decreased over the last decade.

Conclusion: The clinical manifestations of rheumatoid vasculitis were similar to previous studies. The frequency of rheumatoid vasculitis seems to decrease. However, the clinical picture and severity remains invariable.

Keywords: Artritis reumatoide; Rheumatoid arthritis; Rheumatoid vasculitis; Vasculitis; Vasculitis reumatoide.