Rheumatoid neutrophilic dermatitis

Abstract

Rheumatoid neutrophilic dermatitis is a rare extra-articular manifestation of rheumatoid arthritis, both seropositive and seronegative for rheumatoid factor. The condition most often presents as symmetric erythematous papules, nodules, plaques, and urticaria-like lesions in patients with severe, long-lasting rheumatoid arthritis. We report a case of a 65-year-old man with well-controlled rheumatoid arthritis, who developed rheumatoid neutrophilic dermatitis on the right lower leg. The biopsy of skin lesions revealed an intense, neutrophilic dermal infiltrate, microabscesses, and leukocytoclasis without vasculitis. The patient responded well to pulses of intravenous methylprednisolone. We present this patient due to the rarity of the disease and atypical unilateral manifestation involving the flexural surfaces of the lower leg.