6How to Diagnose Rheumatoid Nodules
To diagnose rheumatoid nodules, your doctor first needs to know about your history of rheumatoid arthritis. A physical exam can be done to look for lumps that are growing slowly, asymptomatic, and movable. In some cases, further tests, such as a biopsy, is necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
Keep in mind that having rheumatoid arthritis does not necessarily mean that you will develop rheumatoid nodules. Other conditions may cause similar symptoms, such as basal cell carcinoma, subcutaneous granuloma annulare, epidermoid cysts, xanthomas, metastatic lesions, or fibromas. Nodules may also happen in other disorders, such as sarcoidosis, lupus erythematosus, ankylosing spondylitis, xanthomatosis, rheumatic fever, or gout. [6]
