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Queen Alexandra's Knee
1From the Department of Medicine, Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ.
Summary
Princess Alexandra likely had gonococcal arthritis, not rheumatic fever, during her 1867 illness. This sexually transmitted infection may have been transmitted by her husband, suggesting a re-evaluation of historical medical diagnoses.
Area of Science:
- Medical history
- Infectious diseases
- Rheumatology
Background:
- In 1867, Princess Alexandra experienced a sudden febrile illness during her third pregnancy.
- Her physicians diagnosed rheumatic fever, but the illness's progression was atypical.
Observation:
- The Princess presented with migratory arthritis followed by severe, persistent inflammation in one knee.
- Her symptoms deviated significantly from the typical presentation and course of rheumatic fever.
Findings:
- This review suggests a more probable diagnosis of gonococcal arthritis, a sexually transmitted infection.
- The infection may have been transmitted by her husband, the future King Edward VII.
Implications:
- Re-evaluates a significant historical medical case, challenging the original diagnosis.
- Highlights the importance of considering sexually transmitted infections in differential diagnoses, even in historical contexts.
- Offers insights into the potential health risks within royal circles during the Victorian era.
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