Rheumatology
From the Editor
Understanding the tests we order: Comments and an invitation
Some new laboratory tests go through a life cycle, first being used by subspecialists and then by physicians everywhere.
The Clinical Picture
Hyperkeratotic fissured plaques on both hands: Mechanic’s hands
This sign is seen in about 30% of patients with antisynthetase syndrome.
The Clinical Picture
Primary livedo reticularis of the abdomen
Livedo reticularis can be the manifestation of a wide range of conditions—or not.
IM Board Review
Abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea in a 32-year-old woman
The patient also has numerous painful ulcerations on her skin and in her mouth.
The Clinical Picture
Sarcoidosis mimicking lytic osseous metastases
Sarcoidosis involves the lung in more than 90% of cases; skeletal involvement has been reported in 1% to 14%.
From the Editor
When cold-induced vasospasm is the tip of the iceberg
For a minority of patients, Raynaud phenomenon may be the presenting sign of a systemic disorder.
IM Board Review
Weight loss, fatigue, and renal failure
A 37-year-old man has gradually lost 100 lb over the past 2 years, with progressive fatigue and malaise.
The Clinical Picture
A lump on the hip
The patient had fallen on his hip while playing basketball about 2 weeks earlier.
The Clinical Picture
Swelling of both arms and chest after push-ups
Symptoms of rhabdomyolysis: myalgia, muscle weakness, dark urine, and, in some, muscle swelling.
From the Editor
Appropriate diagnosis of tickborne infections
Fear of undertreatment of early infection can morph into unwarranted treatment of nonexistent chronic infection.
