Involvement of the Lateral Atlanto-Axial Joints as First and Late Symptom of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Summary

Thirty cases of unilateral or bilateral atlanto-axial arthritis are described. They were found among 606 RA patients. According to the degree of involvement, the 30 cases were divided into four groups: A. 16 cases. B. 5 cases. C. 7 cases. D. 2 cases. In two patients the atlanto-axial arthritis was the primary lesion. The clinical and the radiological course of the disease is described. The systematic search for this type of arthritis is emphasized as it is often asymptomatic. The author gives details of a clinical test, specific for the function of the atlanto-axial joints.