Rheumatoid Vasculitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Rheumatoid Vasculitis?
A primary care doctor is often the first person patients see and can start the evaluation. Rheumatoid vasculitis is usually managed with a rheumatologist, a specialist in diseases of the joints and immune system. Some patients also see a dermatologist or neurologist.
What it is
Rheumatoid vasculitis is a rare problem that can happen in people who have rheumatoid arthritis, a disease in which the immune system attacks the joints. In rheumatoid vasculitis, the immune system also attacks blood vessels. When these vessels become inflamed, they can narrow or become damaged, reducing blood flow to the skin, nerves, and other organs.
Symptoms
Symptoms depend on which blood vessels are affected. Many people get sores or ulcers on the skin, often on the legs, and small dark spots around the nails. Some people feel numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hands or feet because nerves are not getting enough blood. Fever, fatigue, weight loss, and belly pain can also occur.
Causes and who gets it
Doctors do not know exactly what causes rheumatoid vasculitis, which happens when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own blood vessels. It almost always appears in people who have had severe, long lasting rheumatoid arthritis for many years, and is seen more often in smokers, men, and those whose disease affects many parts of the body. Most people with rheumatoid arthritis will never develop it.
How doctors diagnose it
There is no single test. Doctors start with a physical exam and medical history. Blood tests can show signs of inflammation. A doctor may order a biopsy, removing a tiny piece of skin or tissue to check under a microscope. Nerve tests and imaging scans can show whether nerves or organs are affected.
Treatment
Treatment usually focuses on calming the immune system. Doctors often prescribe medicines that suppress the immune system so it stops attacking blood vessels. These medicines can raise the risk of infections, so doctors watch patients closely. Quitting smoking is strongly advised, because smoking makes blood vessel disease worse.
When to see a doctor
Anyone with rheumatoid arthritis who gets skin sores that do not heal, dark spots near the nails, or new numbness or weakness should see a doctor soon. Fever, belly pain, or chest pain need prompt medical attention. Early treatment may prevent lasting damage.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance for visits. A concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either one can spend extra time on complex problems and coordinate care between specialists. When rheumatoid vasculitis is suspected, the doctor will refer the patient to a rheumatologist.
Common questions
Is rheumatoid vasculitis the same as rheumatoid arthritis?
No. Rheumatoid arthritis mainly attacks the joints. Rheumatoid vasculitis is a rare complication in which the immune system also attacks blood vessels.
Is it curable?
There is no simple cure, but treatment can often control the inflammation. How well a person does depends on how severe the disease is and which organs are involved. Results differ from person to person.
Can it be prevented?
There is no known way to prevent it. Keeping rheumatoid arthritis well controlled and not smoking may lower the risk of serious complications.
Does everyone with rheumatoid arthritis get vasculitis?
No. It is rare and is seen mostly in people with severe, long standing disease. Most people with rheumatoid arthritis never develop it.
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Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
