Gerald Ci-An Tay1, David A Sauer2, Peter E Andersen1. 1. Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon. 2. Department of Pathology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Rheumatoid nodules are a common manifestation of rheumatoid arthritis but buccal rheumatoid nodules are extremely rare. The purpose of this study was to report a rare case of a rheumatoid buccal nodule and a review of the literature. METHODS AND RESULTS: This case is about a 79-year-old woman with rheumatoid arthritis who was taking methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine, presenting with an enlarging left buccal submucosal mass. An incisional biopsy showed features consistent with that of a rheumatoid nodule. The mass was managed expectantly and the patient was taken off methotrexate with a marked reduction in the size of the nodule. CONCLUSION: Submucosal rheumatoid nodules of the oral cavity are an extremely rare manifestation of rheumatoid arthritis but should be considered in the differential diagnosis in patients with a history of rheumatoid arthritis presenting with submucosal masses.
BACKGROUND:Rheumatoid nodules are a common manifestation of rheumatoid arthritis but buccal rheumatoid nodules are extremely rare. The purpose of this study was to report a rare case of a rheumatoid buccal nodule and a review of the literature. METHODS AND RESULTS: This case is about a 79-year-old woman with rheumatoid arthritis who was taking methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine, presenting with an enlarging left buccal submucosal mass. An incisional biopsy showed features consistent with that of a rheumatoid nodule. The mass was managed expectantly and the patient was taken off methotrexate with a marked reduction in the size of the nodule. CONCLUSION:Submucosal rheumatoid nodules of the oral cavity are an extremely rare manifestation of rheumatoid arthritis but should be considered in the differential diagnosis in patients with a history of rheumatoid arthritis presenting with submucosal masses.