Thank you so much. She was seen in Pensacola at a hosp. somehow connected to Shands. She had 3 removed in Tallahassee fl. the doctor did not know what they were and sent her to a specialist. I am not sure if he was a rheumotologist. (sp) She has 2 or 3 on the other hand. They told the parents that they were R. nodules. but she did not have arthritus??? she is my great niece.

I think it would make sense if possible to get the doctor's name who was the specialist, and either call his/her office or write to him, and ask these questions. You can also ask for copies of any medical reports, and/or have them sent to your local doctor.  (I think it's a good idea ALWAYS to get copies of any test results or biopsies. Then you have them when you go to someone else, and you can compare future test results, and look up any terms you don't understand.)  You could also perhaps ask for a referral closer to home, though sometimes rheumatologists are not plentiful and it may be necessary to travel a bit.  It makes sense to educate yourself as much as possible as you go along, step by step.  If there is any doubt or concern as to what the nodules were, you could request a second opinion.  Insurance plans are generally positive about paying for second opinions because they don't want medical mistakes made either ... though you might wish to call first to verify their coverage -  and everyone ends up better off, if only because you go forward knowing the truth and the patient getting treated in the appropriate way.  You don't want to bury this under the rug - if it is a rheumatoid condition, better to be proactive.