Sections View Full Chapter Figures Tables Videos Full Chapter Figures Tables Videos Supplementary Content + Print Section ++ For further information, see CMDT Part 20-43: Arthritis in Sarcoidosis + Key Features Print Section ++ ++ May occur early (within 6 months of onset of symptoms) or late Often associated with erythema nodosum Rarely deforming + Clinical Findings Print Section ++ ++ Early arthritis Usually begins in one or both ankles and can additively involve knees, wrists, and hands Strongly associated with erythema nodosum and often produces more periarticular swelling than frank joint swelling Axial skeleton spared Commonly self-limited, resolving after several weeks or months and rarely resulting in chronic arthritis, joint destruction, or significant deformity Late arthritis is less severe and less widespread Dactylitis (sausage digit) may occur in association with overlying cutaneous sarcoidosis Often associated with erythema nodosum + Diagnosis Print Section ++ ++ Contingent on demonstration of other extra-articular manifestations of sarcoidosis and biopsy evidence of noncaseating granulomas In chronic arthritis, radiographs show typical changes in the bones of the extremities with intact cortex and cystic changes Despite the clinical appearance of an inflammatory arthritis, synovial fluid often is noninflammatory (ie, < 2000 leukocytes/mcL) + Treatment Print Section ++ ++ Usually symptomatic and supportive Corticosteroids or TNF inhibitors may be effective in patients with severe and progressive joint disease Colchicine may be of value