Related Experiment Videos
An unusual case of factitious arthritis
N Samaniah1, J Horowitz, D Buskila
1Department of Medicine A, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel.
The Journal of Rheumatology
|September 1, 1991
Abstract:
Factitious arthritis is an unusual manifestation of a factitious illness. We report a case of factitious arthritis after the self insertion of needles and fragments of metallic paper clips into the knee joint area. The case illustrates an unusual presentation of Munchausen's syndrome.
Insights
Factitious arthritis, a rare condition, can arise from self-inflicted injuries. This case highlights Munchausen's syndrome presenting as joint inflammation due to inserted foreign objects.
Area of Science:
- Medicine
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Factitious illness is a condition where individuals feign or induce illness for psychological reasons.
- Factitious arthritis is a rare manifestation of factitious illness, presenting diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- A case of factitious arthritis is presented following the self-insertion of needles and metallic paper clip fragments into the knee joint.
- The patient's presentation mimicked genuine joint pathology, necessitating a thorough investigation.
Findings:
- The investigation revealed self-inflicted trauma as the cause of the knee joint inflammation.
- This case exemplifies an unusual presentation of Munchausen's syndrome, a factitious disorder characterized by the intentional production or feigning of physical or psychological symptoms.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering factitious disorders in the differential diagnosis of unexplained joint inflammation.
- Recognizing unusual presentations of Munchausen's syndrome is crucial for appropriate patient management and psychological support.