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Painful knees associated with a septic focus
H L Averns1, N T Cheung, P T Dawes
1Staffordshire Rheumatology Centre, Stoke-on-Trent.
British Journal of Rheumatology
|September 1, 1995
Summary
Gastrointestinal disorders can manifest as joint pain. A case study shows treating a hidden diverticular abscess in a patient with seronegative oligoarthritis and hypertrophic osteoarthropathy resolved all symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Disease
Background:
- The link between gastrointestinal (GI) disorders and arthritis is established.
- Seronegative oligoarthritis and hypertrophic osteoarthropathy are inflammatory conditions affecting joints and bones.
Observation:
- A 54-year-old male presented with seronegative oligoarthritis and symptoms suggestive of hypertrophic osteoarthropathy.
- Initial presentation mimicked other rheumatological conditions, delaying diagnosis of the underlying cause.
Findings:
- A barium enema revealed an occult diverticular abscess, a previously undiagnosed gastrointestinal issue.
- The septic focus in the colon was identified as the likely trigger for the patient's joint and bone symptoms.
Implications:
- Prompt identification and treatment of occult GI infections can lead to complete resolution of associated rheumatological symptoms.
- This case highlights the importance of considering gastrointestinal pathology in patients with unexplained arthritis and osteoarthropathy.
- Effective management of diverticular abscesses may prevent long-term joint complications.