An Asian case of fibroblastic rheumatism: clinical, radiological, and histological features

Fibroblastic rheumatism: immunosuppressive therapy is not always required

Fibroblastic rheumatism is a very rare cause of distal and bilateral polyarthritis characterized by cutaneous nodules, sclerodactylitis, thickened palmar fascia and Raynaud phenomenon. Physiopathology remains unknown and the diagnosis is histologic. Despite the use of immunosuppressive agents in some isolated cases with a variable efficacy, we report a case of typical fibroblastic rheumatism with severe digital retraction who dramatically improved after intensive physical therapy without immunosuppressive drugs prescription. Such a case illustrates that improvement may be spontaneous and that non pharmacological approach is a cornerstone in the management of this disease.