Bilateral Achilles Tendon Rupture in a Patient With End-Stage Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

This case report describes an unusual case of bilateral Achilles tendon rupture in a 65-year-old patient with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The patient presented with decreased mobility, severe pain, and swelling in both calves following multiple courses of dexamethasone for the acute exacerbation of COPD. Notably, there was no history of trauma. Tendon rupture is a recognised, albeit rare, side effect of corticosteroid use. This case highlights the importance of counselling patients about the potential adverse effects of corticosteroids, including their impact on tendon health. It emphasises the need to use steroids judiciously in clinical practice and to avoid their use in patients with a history of atraumatic tendon rupture. Early involvement of the orthopaedic team is recommended to facilitate timely diagnosis, guide management decisions, and optimise functional recovery.