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Ochronosis diagnosed after knee arthroscopy.
Adnan Kara1, Haluk Celik2, Ali Seker1
1Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey.
International Journal of Surgery Case Reports
|July 5, 2014
Summary
Ochronosis, a rare metabolic disorder, can cause joint damage. This case highlights ochronosis diagnosed via arthroscopy revealing black-colored menisci and cartilage in a patient with a meniscus tear.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Orthopedics
- Pathology
Background:
- Ochronosis is a rare disorder characterized by the deposition of homogentisic acid metabolites in connective tissues.
- Clinical features include ochronotic pigmentation, degenerative arthropathy, and dark urine.
- This case presents ochronosis diagnosed during arthroscopy for a meniscus tear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of ochronosis diagnosed via arthroscopic findings.
- To highlight the diagnostic utility of arthroscopy in identifying ochronotic arthropathy.
Main Methods:
- A 42-year-old male patient underwent arthroscopy for a right knee lateral meniscus tear.
- Arthroscopic examination revealed black-colored synovial hypertrophy and a torn lateral meniscus.
- Histopathologic examination confirmed the diagnosis of ochronosis after partial meniscectomy.
Main Results:
- Arthroscopy identified black discoloration of the meniscus and synovial tissue.
- Histopathology confirmed ochronosis.
- The patient presented with a degenerative meniscus tear and associated cartilage damage.
Conclusions:
- Ochronotic pigment can deposit in various tissues, including articular cartilage and menisci.
- Knee and hip joints are most frequently affected in ochronotic arthropathy.
- Arthroscopy can be a valuable diagnostic tool for detecting ochronotic arthropathy.
