BACKGROUND: There have been few case reports of patellar tendon rupture in patients with underlying systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). OBJECTIVES: We present a unique case to discuss the importance of recognizing patellar tendon rupture in the emergency department (ED). CASE REPORT: An 18-year-old man with SLE presented to the ED with pain, swelling, and inability to extend his left knee after a fall. Physical examination demonstrated a palpable defect over the patellar tendon, and plain radiographs showed patella alta. Patellar tendon rupture was diagnosed, and the patient underwent open surgical repair. CONCLUSION: In low-energy patellar tendon rupture, the effects of the pathophysiology and the treatment for SLE, which includes systemic corticosteroids, are currently unclear. However, it is important to establish prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment in the ED to maximize recovery and minimize long-term disability.
BACKGROUND: There have been few case reports of patellar tendon rupture in patients with underlying systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). OBJECTIVES: We present a unique case to discuss the importance of recognizing patellar tendon rupture in the emergency department (ED). CASE REPORT: An 18-year-old man with SLE presented to the ED with pain, swelling, and inability to extend his left knee after a fall. Physical examination demonstrated a palpable defect over the patellar tendon, and plain radiographs showed patella alta. Patellar tendon rupture was diagnosed, and the patient underwent open surgical repair. CONCLUSION: In low-energy patellar tendon rupture, the effects of the pathophysiology and the treatment for SLE, which includes systemic corticosteroids, are currently unclear. However, it is important to establish prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment in the ED to maximize recovery and minimize long-term disability.