Rheumatoid vasculitis: study of 41 cases

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

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

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.

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.