Symmetric polyarthritis as an initial symptom in granulomatosis with polyangiitis: A report of six cases and review of the literature

Eur J Rheumatol. 2018 Sep;5(3):191-193. doi: 10.5152/eurjrheum.2018.17050. Epub 2018 Apr 19.

Abstract

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is a primary systemic vasculitis characterized by granulomatous inflammation. Arthritis in GPA is most commonly associated with large joints, particularly the knees and ankles; however, symmetrical polyarthritis of small joints has been rarely reported in literature. Here, we describe retrospective analysis of six patients with GPA showing initial symptom of symmetrical polyarthritis who were followed-up by three different rheumatology departments. Male sex, anti-cyclic citrulinated peptide negativity, and early arthritis period are important clues for GPA.

Publication types

  • Review