Specific deformities, which also occur in osteoarthritis, include ulnar deviation, boutonniere deformity (also "buttonhole deformity", flexion of proximal interphalangeal joint and extension of distal interphalangeal joint of the hand), swan neck deformity (hyperextension at proximal interphalangeal joint and flexion at distal interphalangeal joint) and "Z-thumb." "Z-thumb" or "Z-deformity" consists of hyperextension of the interphalangeal joint, fixed flexion and subluxation of the metacarpophalangeal joint and gives a "Z" appearance to the thumb. : 1098  The hammer toe deformity may be seen. In the worst case, joints are known as arthritis mutilans due to the mutilating nature of the deformities. Skin
The rheumatoid nodule, which is sometimes in the skin, is the most common non-joint feature and occurs in 30% of people who have RA. It is a type of inflammatory reaction known to pathologists as a "necrotizing granuloma". The initial pathologic process in nodule formation is unknown but may be essentially the same as the synovitis, since similar structural features occur in both. The nodule has a central area of fibrinoid necrosis that may be fissured and which corresponds to the fibrin-rich necrotic material found in and around an affected synovial space. Surrounding the necrosis is a layer of palisading macrophages and fibroblasts, corresponding to the intimal layer in synovium and a cuff of connective tissue containing clusters of lymphocytes and plasma cells, corresponding to the subintimal zone in synovitis.
Vitamin B6 and B9 play a role in RA management as well. Studies have shown that low plasma levels of pyridoxal-5-phosphate, the metabolically active form of vitamin B6, have been reported in RA patients, which may be associated with the elevated TNF-a production. Folate supplies are also decreased in RA patients who are taking Methotrexate, an anti-rheumatic drug. We see that folate supplementation can reduce the mucosal and gastrointestinal side effects of low dose Methotrexate in patients with RA. This works in a similar pattern to aspirin and vitamin E supplementation. Therefore, RA patients should be advised to consume dietary sources of vitamin B6 and B9 up to the dietary reference value, until further research is undertaken into the toxicity and effectiveness of large dose supplementation. Food containing high source of vitamin E to help treat Rheumatoid Arthritis include almonds, avocados, spinach, sunflower seeds and peanut butter. Vitamin C foods include oranges, orange juice, strawberry, broccoli, brussel sprouts and potatoes. Brown rice, barley, and fish contain sources of vitamin B6 and B9. Lastly, Vitamin D can be included in the diet by incorporating tuna, salmon, orange juice and almond Milk into diet.Minerals
Minerals including fluoride, iron, calcium, and zinc have been studied in the role of RA management. The effects of fluoride supplementation in preventing RA-induced bone loss were examined in a randomized control trial. Results suggest that fluoride therapy may increase vertebral bone mass in RA patients.Approximately, one-third of cases of anaemia in RA patients may be caused by depletion of iron stores.