Rheumatoid arthritis contributing to lumbar spinal stenosis. Neurogenic intermittent claudication.

Two patients with rheumatoid arthritis affecting the lumbar spine showed the clinical, roentgenological, and operative characteristics of lumbar spinal stenosis, which is a neurological complication of rheumatoid arthritis that can be treated by surgery. The clinical history is a prerequisite for suspicion of the syndrome, and lumbar myelography including roentgenograms of the extended lumbar spine may verify the diagnosis.