Sections View Full Chapter Figures Tables Videos Annotate Full Chapter Figures Tables Videos Supplementary Content + Download Section PDF Listen ++ For further information, see CMDT Part 20-43: Arthritis in Sarcoidosis + Key Features Download Section PDF Listen +++ ++ May occur early (within 6 months of onset of symptoms) or late Often associated with erythema nodosum Rarely deforming + Clinical Findings Download Section PDF Listen +++ ++ 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 Download Section PDF Listen +++ ++ 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 Download Section PDF Listen +++ ++ Usually symptomatic and supportive Corticosteroids or TNF inhibitors may be effective in patients with severe and progressive joint disease Colchicine may be of value