Patellar Tendon Rupture with Underlying Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Case Report

• Published in: The Journal of emergency medicine Vol. 43; no. 1; pp. e35 - e38
• Main Authors: Lu, Michael, MD, Johar, Sandeep, DO, Veenema, Kenneth, MD, MBA, Goldblatt, John, MD
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 01.07.2012
• Subjects: Adolescent; Emergency; Humans; Joint Diseases - diagnosis; Joint Diseases - etiology; Joint Diseases - surgery; Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic - complications; Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic - drug therapy; Male; patella alta; Patellar Ligament; patellar tendon rupture; Rupture, Spontaneous - diagnosis; Rupture, Spontaneous - etiology; Rupture, Spontaneous - surgery; systemic lupus erythematosus; patella alta; systemic lupus erythematosus; patellar tendon rupture
• ISSN: 0736-4679; 2352-5029
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2009.08.054

Abstract Background: There have been few case reports of patellar tendon rupture in patients with underlying systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Objectives: We present a unique case to discuss the importance of recognizing patellar tendon rupture in the emergency department (ED). Case Report: An 18-year-old man with SLE presented to the ED with pain, swelling, and inability to extend his left knee after a fall. Physical examination demonstrated a palpable defect over the patellar tendon, and plain radiographs showed patella alta. Patellar tendon rupture was diagnosed, and the patient underwent open surgical repair. Conclusion: In low-energy patellar tendon rupture, the effects of the pathophysiology and the treatment for SLE, which includes systemic corticosteroids, are currently unclear. However, it is important to establish prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment in the ED to maximize recovery and minimize long-term disability.