Ulceration of the cornea in rheumatoid arthritis

Five patients with melting of the cornea in association with rheumatoid arthritis are described. The arthritis was often inactive and without systemic manifestations, in contrast to that seen in association with scleritis. In 3 there was evidence of reduced tear formation, but in none was tear production absent. In 3 patients the lesions healed during treatment with azathioprine or penicillamine.