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Arthralgias following dilation and curettage
G Matfin1, P Mahfood, P M Wallach
1University of South Florida, USA.
Hospital Practice (1995)
|June 2, 1998
Summary
A patient initially diagnosed with trochanteric bursitis developed migratory polyarthritis, fever, and chills. This case highlights the importance of considering infectious etiologies in inflammatory joint pain.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Orthopedics
Background:
- A 36-year-old woman presented with right hip pain, initially diagnosed as trochanteric bursitis.
- Treatment included ibuprofen, crutches, and a corticosteroid injection into the trochanteric bursa.
Observation:
- The patient experienced progressive pain and functional decline.
- New onset of pain in the sacroiliac joint, shoulder, and sternoclavicular joint occurred.
- Subjective fever and chills developed within days of initial treatment.
Findings:
- The initial diagnosis of trochanteric bursitis was challenged by the development of migratory polyarthritis.
- Systemic symptoms including fever and chills suggested an underlying infectious or inflammatory process.
Implications:
- This case underscores the need for a broad differential diagnosis in patients presenting with joint pain, especially when symptoms are progressive or migratory.
- Early consideration of infectious causes, such as septic arthritis, is crucial to prevent joint damage and systemic complications.
- Multidisciplinary collaboration between orthopedics and rheumatology is essential for accurate diagnosis and management.