Diagnosis and treatment of SAPHO syndrome: A case report

The present study reports a rare case of synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis and osteitis (SAPHO) syndrome in an adult male. The 42-year-old man complained of skin lesions, chest pain and lumbago. Laboratory evaluations demonstrated an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate and increased levels of C-reactive protein. Computerized tomography, bone scintigraphy and magnetic resonance imaging revealed multiple bone lesions. A diagnosis of SAPHO syndrome was made. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, alendronate sodium and steroids were administered, which resulted in clinical improvement. The current case study demonstrates that skin manifestation and multiple imaging modalities are important in generating a definite diagnosis of SAPHO syndrome, and that early treatment is vital for a positive outcome.