[Bilateral localized osteolysis after cemented total hip replacement]

The incidence of focal progressive osteolysis after THR is about 8% and 56%. Most often osteolysis is correlated with macrophage-induced osteoclastic bone resorption as a sequel of inflammatory reaction to wear particles. Recently these findings were published in respect to allergic reactions to implants, their alloying constituents, or bone cement. We report about a patient who developed bilateral localized osteolysis just below the cement mantle 5 years after cemented THR with a Müller straight stem. In the middle of the osteolysis small fragments of bone cement could be detected. Epicutaneous testing showed no reaction against cobalt, chromium, or nickel. Further epicutaneous testing in respect to ingredients of the bone cement were refused by the patient. Histological examination revealed a histiocytic reaction to wear particles and surrounding giant cells. To our knowledge, this is the first case of bilateral localized osteolysis after cemented total hip replacement. Taking all results of the current case into account, it is still unclear if a lymphocytic allergic contact reaction did contribute to the sequel of this case. Reports of immunologically induced incompatibility to components of bone cement, the development of extended testing procedures, and further scientific research should contribute to optimizing the care of patients.