Rheumatoid Arthritis Veiled by Sickle Beta-Thalassemia: A Rare Immunological Association Delaying Diagnosis

Abstract

Sickle beta-thalassemia is a rare variant of sickle cell disease (SCD) that manifests with milder symptoms. Musculoskeletal complications arising from this condition can mimic inflammatory arthritis and hence delay the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) until irreversible damage has been done. RA has been reported to occur with SCD but there is no documented literature thus far on its co-occurrence with sickle beta-thalassemia.  This case report elucidates the etiopathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and challenges encountered with the diagnosis and management of RA in a patient with sickle beta thalassemia.