Positive Contrast Arthrography in Rheumatoid Arthritis

SUMMARYTwo cases of rheumatoid arthritis have been presented where arthrography has been used to outline the synovial cavities.The following points were noted:  The fluid aspirated from the joint was turbid or yellow.  Smooth nodular filling defects arose from the synovial lining.  The synovial membrane is thickened.  The joint cavities are enlarged and abnormal communications were present.  The enlarged synovial cavity is insensitive to the contrast medium used (Hypaque 50%).  Distension of the enlarged synovial cavity did not produce discomfort.  Loose body formation was noted during the injection phase, when carried out with image intensification control. This feature has not been previously discussed.  The extent of the lesion was demonstrated prior to surgical resection in one case. These arthrographic features in the future may help in the differential diagnosis of some of the more difficult arthritic cases. Further investigation will be necessary along these lines. To date six cases with rheumatoid arthritis have been investigated by arthrography.