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Arch Dermatol. 2003;139:657-662.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text and any section headings.

Diagnosis: Fibroblastic rheumatism.

MICROSCOPIC FINDINGS AND CLINICAL COURSE

Histopathologic examination revealed whorls of plump spindle cells in a background of slightly thickened collagen in the superficial dermis. Sparse numbers of lymphocytes were present around adjacent superficial capillary plexus vessels.

The papules and arthritis persisted for more than 6 months after the diagnosis was made, despite therapeutic trials of low-dose oral prednisone and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents. The patient was referred to a physical therapist for maintenance of joint mobility and has been unavailable for further follow-up.

DISCUSSION

Fibroblastic rheumatism is a rare dermatosis-arthritis syndrome that was originally described in France,¹ with 18 cases documented in the medical literature. Patients range in age from 8 to 68 years and may be of either sex.

Patients present with several asymptomatic, smooth, indurated, flesh-colored to erythematous papulonodules (2-20 mm in diameter),^2-3 most commonly on the dorsal surface of the joints of the hands but also on the ears, neck, elbows, and knees. After . . . [Full Text of this Article]

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Arch Dermatol. 2003;139(5):657-662.
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