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Rheumatoid nodulosis of the meninges
N E Karam1, L Roger, L L Hankins
1Department of Medicine, University of Texas Houston Health Science Center, Houston 77225.
The Journal of Rheumatology
|October 1, 1994
Abstract:
Rheumatoid nodulosis of the brain and leptomeninges has been reported only rarely, usually in patients with severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We describe the occurrence of leptomeningeal rheumatoid nodulosis occurring in a patient with nondeforming RA occurring in the setting of methotrexate therapy.
Insights
Leptomeningeal rheumatoid nodulosis, a rare brain complication, occurred in a patient with mild rheumatoid arthritis (RA) during methotrexate treatment. This case highlights a rare presentation of RA affecting the central nervous system.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rheumatology
- Pathology
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease primarily affecting joints.
- Neurological complications of RA are uncommon, with rheumatoid nodulosis typically seen in severe, deforming cases.
- Leptomeningeal involvement by rheumatoid nodules is exceptionally rare.
Observation:
- A case of leptomeningeal rheumatoid nodulosis is presented.
- The patient had non-deforming rheumatoid arthritis.
- The condition occurred during methotrexate therapy.
Findings:
- This case demonstrates rheumatoid nodulosis affecting the brain's leptomeninges.
- The presentation occurred in a patient with mild, non-deforming rheumatoid arthritis.
- Methotrexate therapy was being administered at the time of diagnosis.
Implications:
- This finding expands the known spectrum of central nervous system involvement in rheumatoid arthritis.
- It suggests that leptomeningeal rheumatoid nodulosis can occur even in less severe forms of RA.
- The role of methotrexate in the pathogenesis or presentation of this rare complication warrants further investigation.