Rheumatoid Vasculitis as an Initial Presentation of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid vasculitis is a rare, extra-articular manifestation that can be seen in long-standing rheumatoid arthritis. Here we present the case of a 51-year-old man who presented with arthralgias, skin rash, dyspnoea and generalized leg swelling and who was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis flare.

Extra-articular manifestations like rheumatoid vasculitis and pericarditis rarely present as initial manifestations of rheumatoid arthritis.A high index of suspicion is required to make the diagnosis, especially in an adult who presents with multiorgan manifestations, rash, and a high titre of rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP antibody levels.