THU383 “My Hands Are Always Stiff”: A Common But Underrecognized Mimicker Of Inflammatory Arthritis.

Abstract

Abstract Disclosure: I. Iqbal: None. A. Minalyan: None. M. Khan: None. Introduction: Inflammatory arthropathies are often identified in patients by their characteristic patterns, including symmetric small joint involvement, joint stiffness that can improve with physical activity, and others. However, it is crucial to address comorbidities and their impact on symptom presentation when assessing these patients. Here we present a case of a relatively common but underrecognized mimicker of inflammatory arthropathies. Case: A 63-year-old man with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (DM1) and seronegative rheumatoid arthritis (RA) was referred to a rheumatology clinic by his family physician to manage RA. He was previously treated with prednisone and methotrexate for six months for presumed seronegative rheumatoid arthritis without any relief. He reported chronic pain and stiffness in his joints: wrists, metacarpophalangeal (MCP), proximal and distal interphalangeal (PIP and DIP) joints, ankles, and feet. His symptoms were worse in the morning. However, on further questioning, he admitted that the stiffness did not improve throughout the day. He denied joint swelling or redness over the affected joints. On exam, his hand joints had significant stiffness. We obtained hand radiographs which did not show erosive changes or significant joint space narrowing. He had negative rheumatoid factor (RF), normal anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) antibodies, and antinuclear antibody (ANA) levels, which ruled out the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. A detailed physical exam demonstrated a positive “prayer sign” and “tabletop sign.” Further lab review showed that his hemoglobin A1c (HbA1C) had been ranging between 8% to 10% over several years. Eventually, the patient was diagnosed with limited joint mobility due to the poorly controlled DM1. We discontinued his methotrexate and referred him to an endocrinologist to manage the uncontrolled DM1. He was referred to physical therapy for hand stretching exercises. After six months of treatment, his symptoms improved but did not resolve completely. Conclusion: It is essential to identify the impact of diabetes on the musculoskeletal system. Limited joint mobility, previously known as diabetic cheiroarthropathy (DCA), is a common but frequently missed manifestation of poorly controlled diabetes. It is characterized by a limited ability to flex or extend the MCP and IP joints. It may or may not be painful and can progress to fixed flexion contractures of the finger joints. Early recognition is essential for correct diagnosis. Treatment is with tighter glycemic control and physical therapy. Presentation: Thursday, June 15, 2023