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Updated: Sep 13, 2025
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Leukemic Arthritis Mimicking Septic Arthritis in a Pediatric Patient
Alyssa Barré1, Daniel Hayes1, Shawn Dripchak1
1University of Kentucky, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA.
Summary
Leukemic arthritis can mimic septic arthritis in children, presenting as painful, swollen joints. Early leukemia diagnosis is crucial, as joint symptoms may be the first sign, preventing unnecessary surgeries.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Rheumatology
- Pediatric Oncology
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Leukemic arthritis is a rare but significant cause of joint pain in children.
- It often presents similarly to septic arthritis, posing diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- A 7-year-old girl experienced migratory polyarthropathy, initially suspected as septic arthritis due to painful joint effusions and elevated inflammatory markers.
- Despite negative joint aspirates and surgical intervention for suspected septic arthritis, her symptoms persisted and migrated.
Findings:
- The child's migratory joint pain and swelling were ultimately diagnosed as a manifestation of acute leukemia.
- Chemotherapy initiation led to the complete resolution of her arthritic symptoms.
Implications:
- Leukemic arthritis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pediatric patients with unexplained, migratory, or persistent joint pain and swelling.
- Timely recognition by orthopedic providers is essential to avoid misdiagnosis and unnecessary procedures, facilitating prompt leukemia diagnosis and treatment.
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