TOPHUS-LIKE CHOLESTEROL NODULES IN 2 PATIENTS WITH RHEUMATOID-DISEASE

We describe 2 patients, both with rheumatoid disease, with tophus-like nodules that contained cholesterol crystals. A tophus-like cholestero l nodule had developed in a tendon sheath of the left little finger of one. The other presented with multiple tophus-like nodules on his lef t elbow and both forefeet. We discuss the etiology and pathogenesis of crystalline deposits of cholesterol. Nodules at sites of local pressu re in patients with rheumatoid arthritis may be deposits of cholestero l crystals.