Rheumatoid Vasculitis, an Uncommon Complication of Non-Deforming Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Case Report

Abstract

We present an 18-year-old female from South Sudan presented with right fingertips ulceration and black discolouration associated with bilateral wrist/metacarpophalangeal joints pain for five months. The ulceration began at the tip of the right middle finger and gradually progressed to involve the rest of the hand and was associated with agonizing pain. A Doppler study of the right upper limb revealed thrombosis of the antecubital portion of the basilar, ulnar, and part of the distal radial arteries. Blood investigations showed high anti-CCP, doubtful rheumatoid factor titre and ANA titre of 1:320 with coarse and nucleated cells; however, all ANA parameters were negative. A definitive diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis complicated by rheumatoid vasculitis was made. Unfortunately, the middle finger could not be preserved and ended up amputated, and the patient was commenced on steroids, DMARDs and warfarin. The patient responded very well to the management plan with pain alleviation, ulcers healing and clot resolution.