Case report: Massive osteolysis in a case of rheumatoid arthritis: Clinical, histologic and biochemical findings

Abstract

A 54-year-old male with a 10-year history of seropositive rheumatoid arthritis subsequently developed generalized osteoporosis, multiple cervical spine subluxation, vertebral collapses, and massive osteolysis of the humeral and femoral heads and carpal bones. These lesions were accompanied by neurologic manifestations in both the upper and lower extremities. Bone matrix collagen and noncollagenous proteins in this rare syndrome were analyzed. The pathogenesis of this rare phenomenon is discussed.