Pure Red Cell Aplasia Secondary to Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract BackgroundRheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common autoimmune disease with many extra-articular manifestations. Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) is a rare manifestation of RA and is sparsely documented in the literature with a variable clinical outcome following immunosuppressive therapy. Case presentationA 63-year-old female presented with transfusion-dependent anaemia associated with deforming inflammatory arthritis, who also had leukopenia, right subclavian venous thrombosis, and generalized lymphadenopathy. The diagnosis of RA following initial clinical workup and additional blood and bone marrow investigations revealed PRCA as a secondary manifestation of RA after excluding other secondary causes, such as infections, thymoma, thrombophilic conditions and haematological malignancy. She responded well to oral prednisolone, cyclosporine A and hydroxychloroquine, where she attained complete recovery in two months. ConclusionPRCA is a disabling illness that may lead to transfusion-dependent anaemia, which may occur due to rare extrapulmonary manifestation of RA. The diagnosis of PRCA secondary to RA may be challenging where haematological investigations, including bone marrow biopsy, will aid in the diagnosis, and early diagnosis and treatment will bring about a better outcome.