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Lipid microspherule-associated acute monarticular arthritis
Arthritis and Rheumatism
|September 1, 1986
Summary
This study reports a rare case of acute knee arthritis caused by lipid microspherules. Prompt treatment with colchicine effectively resolved the patient's symptoms, highlighting a potential therapeutic approach for this condition.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Crystal-induced Arthropathies
Background:
- Acute monarthritis can present with diverse etiologies, including crystal deposition diseases.
- Lipid microspherules are an uncommon cause of joint inflammation.
Observation:
- A 33-year-old obese male presented with acute knee arthritis.
- Synovial fluid analysis revealed a high white blood cell count (11,700/mm3, 97% neutrophils) and numerous 2-6 micron spherules with positive birefringence and Maltese cross appearance.
Findings:
- The observed spherules were identified as lipid microspherules.
- No underlying systemic lipid disorder or local trauma was identified as the cause.
Implications:
- This case expands the literature on lipid microspherule-associated arthritis, a rare differential diagnosis for acute monarthritis.
- The prompt response to colchicine suggests its potential efficacy in managing this specific type of crystal-induced arthritis.