MSK Flashcards
What are the clinical findings of ankylosing spondylitis?
reduced chest expansion, reduced lateral flexion and reduced forward flexion (Schober’s test)
Sulfasalazine can cause what?
Reduced sperm count -> usually returns to normal upon stopping the medication
What would joint aspiration of rheumatoid arthritis show?
- High WBC
- Polymorph neutrophils
- Cloudy/Yellow appearance
What is previous chemo a big risk factor for?
Avascular necrosis
Methotrexate plus trimethoprim can cause what?
Bone marrow suppression and panycytopenia
DIP swelling and dactylitis with arthritis suggests what?
Psoriatic arthritis
Which antibody is specific for anti-phospholipid syndrome?
Anticardiolipin antibody
What are the smoking cessation drugs?
- Nicotine replacement (causes N+V, headaches, flu symptoms)
- Varenicline (causes nausea and C/I in pregnancy/BF)
- Bupropion (reduces seizure threshold)
What type of shock does tension pneumothorax cause?
Obstructive
Which lung cancer is gynaecomastia associated with?
Adenocarcinoma of the lung
What does an isolated rise in ALP suggest?
Pagets disease of the bones
What is Paget’s disease of the bone?
Increased but uncontrolled bone turnover- XS osteoclast resorption and increased osteoblastic activity
What is most commonly affected in Paget’s
Skull, spine/pelvis, long bones of lower extremities
Paget’s predisposing factors?
Age, male, northern latitude, FHx
Paget’s CP
- 5% symptomatic
- older male with bone pain and raised ALP
- bone pain: pelvis, lumbar, femur
- bowing of tibia, bossing of skull
Paget’s Ix
- bloods
- other markers of bone turnover
- x-ray= osteolysis in early disease; mixed lytic/sclerotic lesions later. Skull= thickened vault, osteoporosis circumscripta
- Bone scintigraphy (increased uptake at sites of active bone lesions)
Bloods in Paget’s?
- Raised ALP
- Ca and phosphate normal (sometimes hypercalcaemia with prolonged immobilisation)
Other markers of bone turnover in Paget’s?
- procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide (PINP)
- serum C-telopeptide (CTx)
- urinary N-telopeptide (NTx)
- urinary hydroxyproline
Paget’s Mx?
- Bisphosphonate (oral risedronate or IV zoledronate)
- calcitonin less common
Paget’s indications for Mx
Bone pain, skull or long bone deformity, fracture, periarticular Paget’s
Paget’s Cx
Deafness, bone sarcoma, fractures, skull thickening, high-output cardiac failure
subchondral erosions, sclerosis
and squaring of lumbar vertebrae
Anklyosing spondylitis
What is the most common site of metatarsal stress fractures?
2nd metatarsal
hyperpigmentation of the palmar creases indicates what?
Addisons
How should proximal scaphoid pole fracture be managed?
Refer to orthopaedics for surgical fixation
Features of a acetabular labral tear?
- Following trauma
- Hip/groin pain
- Snapping sensation
Features of a femoroacetabular impingement?
- More chronic history
Long term steroid use/chemo therapy + someone with hip pain suggests?
Avascular necrosis of the hip
Pain following tibial surgery?
Compartment syndrome
What is the management of AVN?
If displaced: total hip replacement for anyone who is mobile, no co-morbidities etc otherwise hemiarthroplasty
If not displaced: internal fixation
Rheumatic vs psoriatic arthritis?
Psoriatic will be asymmetrical
When should uric acid levels be measured again with gout?
2 weeks after the flare has settled
X-ray findings for rheumatoid arthritis
L – loss of joint space
E – erosions
S – soft tissue swelling
S – soft bones (periarticular osteopenia)
+ juxta-articular osteoporosis
subluxation
Extra-articular manifestations of RA?
Nodules, scleritis, episcleritis, pleural effusion, Felty, anaemia, Raynaud’s, carpal tunnel
RA, Splenomegaly and neutropenia?
Felty
Antibody of choice for RA
Anti-ccp
Hand signs for RA
- Ulnar deviation
- Swan neck deformity
- Z neck thumb
- Muscle wasting
- Wrist subluxation
What organism can cause septic arthritis with metal joint?
Early stages after surgery - staph aureus
Later onset - staph epidermidis
What are risk factors for septic arthritis?
RA, DM, Immunosuppression, Penetrating injury, infection elsewhere
What are the rotator cuff muscles?
Supraspinatus
Infraspinatus
Teres minor
Subscapularis
What muscles are responsible for shoulder abduction?
0-15 degrees: supraspinatus
15 - 90 degrees: deltoid
90 degrees+: Trapezius and serratus anterior
Which muscles does the accessory nerve innervate?
Deltoid and teres minor
Investigations to assess for supraspinatus impingement?
US and MRI
Proximal muscle weakness + raised CK + no rash
Polymyositis
Dermatomyositis vs polymyositis
Dermatomyositis would have a rash
What would be seen on X-ray to support a diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis?
Sacro-ilitis
What should be given to women >75 with a fragility fracture?
Bisphosphonates
When should a referral for sciatica be considered?
4-6 weeks after analgesia + physio treatment
What are the features of ankylosing spondylitis?
Apical fibrosis
Anterior uveitis
Aortic regurgitation
Achilles tendonitis
AV node block
Amyloidosis
and cauda equina syndrome
Pain worse on walking on tip toes?
Plantar fasciitis
Fever + back pain + IVDU
Iliopsoas abscess
What is the treatment for psoas abscess?
Abx + percutaneous drainage
muscle wasting of the hands, numbness and tingling and possibly autonomic symptoms
Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome
What is osteomalacia?
Softening of the bones secondary to vit D deficiency
How does osteomalacia present?
- Bone pain/tenderness
- Fractures e.g NOF
- Proximal myopathy: waddling gait
How would osteomalavcia present on investigations?
- Low Vit D
- Low calcium and phosphate
- Raised ALP
- Translucent bands over the X-ray
Management of NOF fractures
Non-displaced + intracapsular: cannulated screw fixation
Stable + extra capsular: dynamic hip screw
Displaced + Intacapsular if not very mobile older patient: Hemiarthroplaty
Displaced + intracapsular if young/mobile older patient: Total hip arthroplasty
flexion deformities of his 4th and 5th digit which cannot be passively corrected
Duputrynes contracture
What is often the earliest sign of Dupuytrens?
Firm, thickened palmar nodule over the metacarpal head
What are risk factors for Dupuytrens?
- Diabetes
- Alcohol
- FH
- AIDS
Limited vs diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis
Diffuse will have widespread skin and organ involvement (lungs and kidneys)
What is fat embolism?
A syndrome secondary to trauma/fractures/orthopaedic surgery
How does fat embolism present?
Pulmonary: PE like symptoms
Neuro: altered mental status, seizures, coma
Derm: petechial rash on upper body
Managed with supportive treatment/prophylaxis
What are common precipitants of gout?
- Surgery
- Dehydration
- Alcohol
- Trauma
- Infection
- Foods rich in purines
What are x-ray findings of gout?
- Normal joint space
- Soft tissue swelling
- Periarticular erosions
What can be some examination findings of osteoarthritis?
- Antalgic gait
- Joint swelling
- Joint tenderness
- Pain on movement
- Crepitus
- Reduced ROM
purple discolouration of eyelids in dermatomyositis?
Heliotrope
What are Gottron’s papules?
Rough, red papules over the knuckles -> dermatomyositis
What antibodies are associated with dermatomyositis?
Anti-Jo, Anti-MI, RF, ANA
What is Raynauds phenomenon?
Peripheral digital ischaemic caused by vasospasm which is precipitated by cold/emotion
What are some causes of Raynauds phenomenon?
- SLE
- Raynaud’s disease
- RA
- Ehler-Danlos
- Beta blockers
- Atherosclerosis
What are the features of CREST?
Calcinosis
Raynaud’s
Oesophageal dysmotility
Sclerodactyly
Telangiectasia
What respiratory condition is associated with AS?
Pulmonary fibrosis
What is mononeuritis multiplex?
Damage to 2+ peripheral nerves
What are causes of mononeuritis multiplex?
- HIV/AIDS
- Diabetes
- RA
- Sarcoidosis
What is the definitive investigation for Sjogrens?
Salivary gland biopsy
What is the most common cause of cauda equina syndrome?
Lumbar disc herniation at L4/L5/ or L5/S1
Pseudogout is strongly associated with what?
Haemochromatosis
What are the most specific markers for SLE?
anti-dsDNA and anti-SM
ANA - most sensitive
Erb’s palsy has injury to which myotomes?
C5 and C6 (11 erbs and spices)
How does Erb’s palsy present?
Imparied wrist extension and elbow flexion - waiters tip
Carbamazepine increases risk of what?
Osteoporosis
Back pain red flags?
- Thoracic or cervical spine pain
- Progressive pain not relieved by rest
- Fevers, chills, weight loss
- Early morning stiffness > 30 mins
- Bowel/bladder/neuro dysfunction
What should be given for cord compression secondary to bone metastases?
Dexamethasone
Osteoporosis risk factors?
Steroids
Hyperthyroidism/Hyperparathyroidism
Alcohol/Smoking
Thin
Testosterone deficiency
Early menopause
Renal failure
Erosive bone disease
Diabetes
What is a Colles fracture?
Fracture of the distal radium with dorsal angulation of the distal fracture fragments
Septic Arthritis in a prosthetic joint?
Admit patient and arrange ortho review
pain and swelling at the base of the thumb and along the radial aspect of the wrist, often worsened by thumb movement or grasping in a YOUNG person
De Quervain;s tenosynovitis
What should take place before starting anyone on biologics?
Quantiferon test - assess for TB as biologics can reactivate latent TB
Abx regiment for septic arthritis?
2 weeks of IV plus 4 weeks of orals
Which antibodies are specific for anti phospholipid
Anti-beta-2-glycoprotein I antibody
What is a common early finding in professional players who have had trauma?
Osteoarthritis
What cover should be given to those receiving allopurinol?
NSAIDs cover for 3 months as allopurinol can acutely raise urate levels
‘rain-drop skull’
Myeloma
‘pepper pot skull’
Hyperparathyroidism
What are the most common side effects of colchicine?
Diarrhoea, nausea + vomiting
What scoring system can be for RA and what does it indicate?
Disease-activity score
<2.6 - remission
>5.1 - high disease activity
What is the dose for steroids in GCA?
60mg of prednisolone
How would lumbar spondylosis present?
- Arthritis like pain which gets worse throughout the day in older patients
What is recommended in patients with GCA with CVD risk factors/IHD?
Aspirin 75mg as prophylaxis
What is the inheritance of Marfans?
Autosomal dominant
How should methotrexate be monitored?
FBC, Renal function and LFTs weekly until established then every 2-3 months
What can patients with limited systemic sclerosis develop as a late manifestation?
Interstitial lung disease
What investigation should be done for women with polymyalgia due to steroid use?
DEXA
What are the 4 features of antiphospholipid syndrome?
Clots - VTE/PE
Livedo reticularis
Obstetric loss
Thrombocytopenia
c-ANCA positive?
Granulomatosis with polyangiitis
What are features of granulomatosis with polyangiitis?
- Resp involvement
- Kidney involvement: glomerulonephritis
- Systemic symptoms
- Ocular manifestations e.g. scleritis
How is granulomatosis with polyangiitis managed?
- Cyclophosphamide/rituximab in acute
- Azathioprine/Methotrexate during remission
asthma, nasal polyps and a mononeuritis multiplex
Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis
Recurrent oral and genital ulcers with uveitis and erythema nodosum?
Behcet’s disease- HLA B51
Common sites where osteoporotic fragility fractures occur?
- Pubic ramus
- Hip
- Distal radium
- Proximal humerus
What are side effects of bisphosphonates?
- Abdominal pain
- Dyspepsia
- Nausea
- Abdominal distension
- Oesophageal ulceration
What is the first line imaging in myeloma?
MRI
Acute back pain in a patient with osteoporosis?
Think osteoporotic verterbral fracture -> X-ray needed
What is the Z score adjusted for in patients with DEXA scans?
Age, gender and ethnic factors
What antibodies are found in CREST syndrome?
Anti-centromere
What is Behcet’s syndrome?
- Common in young Turkish men
- Oral ulcers, genital ulcers and anterior uveitis
- Erythema nodosum also present
Which DMARD is associated with retinopathy?
Hydroxychloroquine
What is Caplan syndrome?
Massive fibrosis in patients with RA and pneumoconiosis
What is polyarteritis nodosa?
Medium vessel vasculitis common in middle aged men with Hep B
Can cause testicular pain, weight loss, HTN, renal failure
PANCA positive
Ejection systolic murmur with SLE?
Libman-Sacks endocarditis
What are some skin changes with dermatomyositis?
- Heliotrope rash of eyelids
- Periorbital oedema
- Dilated capillary loops under the fingernails
What are some symptoms of dermatomyositis?
- Muscle swelling
- Muscle tenderness
- Arthralgia
- Fatigue
- Weakness
What are some symptoms of fibromyalgia?
- Pain
- Sleep disturbance
- Paraesthesia
- Memory disturbance
- Headaches
- Dizziness
What are some skin changes with Reiters?
- Mouth ulcers
- Erythema nodosum
- Keratoderma blennorrhagica (yellow/brown papules on soles of feet)
What are some cardiac complications of Reiters?
- Pericarditis
- Aortic regurg
- Aortitis
What is there not in someone with polymyalgia?
True weakness of muscles -> normal power
Management of a prolapsed disc?
Analgesia + Physio
Painful click on McMurrays test?
Think twisted knee injury - meniscal tear
What is a Galeazzi fracture?
Dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint with an associated fracture of the radius
tenderness in the anatomic snuffbox dorsally
Scaphoid fracture
What should be corrected before giving bisphosphonates?
Calcium level / Vit D deficiency
Pain on the radial side of the wrist/tenderness over the radial styloid process in a young women?
De Quervain’s tenosynovitis
What does co-trimoxazole contain?
Trimethoprim -> think about methotrexate
Most likely places for bone mets?
Women - breast
Men - prostate
What are major risk factors for osteoporosis?
- Steroid use
- RA
- Alcohol excess
- Low BMI
- Smoking
What will the blood test values be with osteoporosis?
Everything normal
Imaging of choice for osteomyelitis?
MRI
lead pipe appearance of the colon
Ulcerative colitis
popping sensation, immediate swelling and immediate unable to weight-bear
ACL injury - Lachmans test
Knee locking and giving-way
Meniscal lesions
What is the management of newly diagnosed RA?
Methotrexate and oral steroids
Z score is helpful for what?
Diagnosing secondary osteoporosis
Compartment syndrome produces what?
Pain on passive stretch
What is the management of flares of rheumatoid arthritis?
Steroids oral or IM
When can reactive arthritis present and how long do symptoms last?
- Can develop upto 4 weeks after initial infection
- Symptoms last around 4-6 months
dull shoulder pain, that often disturbs sleep, followed by
stiffness and loss of shoulder mobility
Frozen shoulder - Adhesive capsulitis
Management of undisplaced scaphoid fractures?
Cast for 6-8 weeks
What are some hand signs of psoriatic arthritis?
- Dactylitis
- Nail pitting
- Onchylosis
- Nail discolouration
What are some X-ray findings of psoriatic arthritis?
- Soft tissue swelling
- Bony erosions
- Pencil in cup deformity
- Loss of joint space
What is the most severe form of psoriatic arthritis?
Arthritis mutilans
What is the treatment of psoriatic arthritis?
- NSAIDs if mild
- Methotrexate
- anti-TNF biologics
Chalky nodules in someone with gout?
Gouty tophi
What HLA type is rheumatoid?
HLA-DR4 / HLA-DR1
Risk factors for pseudogout?
- Steroid use
- Hyperparathyroidism
- Haemochromatosis
- Wilson’s
- Acromegaly
What is the prognosis of pseudogout?
Resolves within 10 days
What are some complications of eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis?
- HF
- Myocarditis
- HTN
- Stroke
- Bowel ischaemia
- Pancreatitis
Prophylactic bisphosphonates should be offered to who?
Those with T score <1.5 if they are on steroids for more than 3 months
What should alendronate be changed to if patients are experiencing bad GI side effects?
Risedronate
SGLT-2 inhibitors can increase the risk of what?
Ulcers or infection -> increased risk of amputation
Which organism causes osteomyelitis in sickle cell?
Salmonella
anti-histone antibodies can be a sign of what?
Drug induced lupus - common causes include isoniazid, phenytoin
Lace like rash on shins is a sign of what?
Livedo reticularis -> associated with anti-phospholipid syndrome
raised CRP in a patient with known SLE
Can suggest underlying infection
What is an early x ray finding of rheumatoid arthritis?
Juxta-articular osteopenia
What is a fragility fracture?
A fracture from a fall from standing height or less
What are examples of fragility fracture?
- Vertebral compression fractures
- Hip
- Distal radium
- Proximal humerus fracture
Nerve and which fracture they are associated with?
Radial - fracture of shaft of humerus (wrist drop)
Ulnar - supracondylar fracture of humerus
Axillary - fracture of proximal humerus
Bilateral carpal tunnel?
Rheumatoid
Lateral knee pain in a runner?
Iliotibial band syndrome -> treat with stretches
Lateral epicondylitis causes what?
- Pain worse on supination of the wrist
- Pain worse on wrist extension against resistance
What is the main structure which is damaged in scaphoid fractures?
dorsal carpal branch of the radial artery
dislocation of the proximal radioulnar joint in association with an ulnar fracture
Monteggia fracture
Most common sites of osteomyelitis in children and adults?
Children - Metaphysis
Adults - Epiphysis
What are different management options for carpal tunnel?
- Night splints
- Intraarticular steroid injections
- Carpal tunnel decompression
Bruised, swollen, deformed and painful elbow?
Think supracondylar fracture
What would Perthes disease x-ray show?
- Widening of joint space
- Decreased femoral head size
- Flattening
What are surgical management options for osteoarthritis?
- Osteotomies
- Arthroplasty
What is duputryens?
Thickening of the palmar fascia which eventually causes a fixed flexion deformity
What is the most common type of shoulder dislocation?
Anterior dislocation
What is the weight bearing status after NOF surgeries?
Cannulated screws - less than full initially
Everything else - full weight bearing
Radiculopathy vs myelopathy
Radiculopathy - compression of a single nerve root which has exited the spinal cord
Myelopathy - pain due to compression of the spinal cord
Which nerve roots correspond to reflexes?
Ankle - S1/2
Knee - L3/L4
Bicep - C5/C6
Tricep - C7/C8
Simmonds test - calf squeeze
Achilles tendon rupture
Which knee compartment is most commonly affected in osteoarthritis?
Medial
Open tibial fractures should be covered with what?
Sterile saline gauze
Which muscle is responsible for the weakness in thumb abduction in carpal tunnel?
Abductor pollicis brevis
Haematogenous vs direct contamination?
Haematogenous - infection reaches bone through bloodstream
Direct contamination - infection spreads directly from adjacent tissues/structures to the bone
Bakers cysts occur secondary to what?
Degeneration
Imaging for achilles tendon rupture?
US
What is the test of choice for Duputryen’s?
Table top test
Which arteries are at risk in NOF?
Circumflex arteries
Soft, non-tender swelling near joints or tendons, containing clear,
viscous fluid
Ganglionic cyst
Sciatic nerve originates from?
L4-S3
What is RICE mnemonic for soft tissue injuries?
Rest, ice, compression, elevation
Synovial fluid aspiration in someone with reactive arthritis?
No organisms will be recovered + cloudy/yellow colour
What is the most common mechanism of ankle sprains?
Inversion
Any MSK pain/Osteoarthritis first line treatment?
Topical NSAIDs/Oral NSAIDs
What is spondylolisthesis?
One vertebra slips out of line with one above it, usually in the lumbar spine
Pain on painful arc with normal X ray?
Painful arc syndrome / subacromial bursitis / impingement syndrome
Trigger finger management?
- Rest and splint
- NSAIDs
- Steroid injections
What are examination findings of NOF?
Affected side shortened
Externally rotated
Abducted
S/E of bisphosphonates
- Oesophageal erosions
- Osteonecrosis of jaw
- Atypical fractures
CREST antibodies?
- Anti-centromere
- Anti-Scl70
What are pulmonary complications of CREST?
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Pulmonary HTN
What are causes of sciatica?
- Spinal stenosis
- Disc herniation
- Pelvic tumours
Greenstick fractures are unique to who?
Children - usually under 10s
3rd line management for acute gout in renal disease?
Steroids
What is the investigation of choice for Takayasu’s arteritis?
CT angio
What is Caplan syndrome?
RA plus pulmonary nodules
What is the diagnostic test for Behcet’s disease?
Pathergy test
Diabetics are susceptible to what infections?
Staphylococcal
diffuse thickening of the pancreatic body and tail
Sausage pancreas sign -> autoimmune pancreatitis
Antiphospholipid causes prolonged what?
APTT
What drug makes Raynaud’s worse?
Propranolol
RA spares which joint?
DIP
Progressive shoulder pain with reduced ROM in middle aged?
Frozen shoulder
Management of achilles tendonitis?
Rest, NSAIDs and physio if symptoms persistent beyond 7 days
What is Simmonds triad?
- palpation
- examining the angle of declination at rest
- squeeze test
Investigation for suspected hip fracture if X-ray is normal?
MRI
What can be done for NOF fractures?
Iliofascial nerve block
What is the most common reason for revising a total hip replacement?
Asceptic loosening of the implant
Joint aspirate with high WBC count, mainly neutrophils with well patient?
Rheumatoid
Gold standard diagnostic investigation for Ankylosing spondyliitis?
MRI of sacroiliac joints
Methotrexate can cause what when not given folate alongside?
Macrocytic anaemia due to folate deficiency
What is the treatment for reactive arthritis?
NSAIDs
Management of patients who do not respond to steroids in poly myalgia?
Refer to specialist
Compartment syndrome can cause what?
Rhabdomyolysis
Management of undisplaced patella fracture with intact extensors?
Conservative with knee immobilisation
Management of renal hypertensive crises in systemic sclerosis?
ACE inhibitors
What are S/E of leflunomide?
Raised BP and peripheral neuropathy
What is the anticoagulant of choice in antiphospholipid?
Warfarin
Kids born to mums with SLE/Sjogrens can get what?
Congenital heart block -> neonatal lupus syndrome
Axial spondyloarthritis?
group of clinically heteriogeneous chronic inflam rheumatologic conditions that may cause MSK and extra MSK manifestations
features of axial (saroiliac joints and spine) and peripheral spondyloarthritis can overlap and coexist
eg. alkylosing spondylitits
Radiographic axial spondyloarthritis is characterised by?
signs of sacroilitis and structural changes on x-ray (aka ankylosing spondylitis)
Non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis?
no x-ray changes but possible sarcoilitis on MRI
Extra-MSK manifestations of axial spondyloarthritis?
acute anterior uveitis, IBD, psoriasis
Ankylosing spondylitis?
HLA-B27 associated sponyloarthropathy
When does ankylosing spondylitis typically present?
20-30yrs
men>women
Spondyloarthropathy?
group of chronic inflam diseases that affects the joints
Features of ankylosing spondylitis?
- typically young man with lower back pain and stiffness of insidious onset
- stiffness worse in morning and improves with exercise
- may be pain at night which improves on getting up
- extra-MSK manifestations
Stiffness in ankylosing spondylitis?
worse in morning and improves with exercise
Clinical exam in ankylosing spondylitis?
- reduced lateral flexion
- reduced forward flexion (Schober’s test)
- reduced chest expansion
What test is used in ankylosing spondylitis?
Schober’s= reduced forward flexion
line is drawn 10 cm above and 5 cm below the back dimples (dimples of Venus). The distance between the two lines should increase by more than 5 cm when the patient bends as far forward as possible
Extra-MSK features of ankylosing spondylitis?
Apical fibrosis
Anterior uveitis
Aortic regurgitation
Achilles tendonitis
AV node block
Amyloidosis
cauda equina syndrome
peripheral arthritis (25%, more common if female)
When to suspect and refer for ankylosing spondylitis?
- low back pain, spinal stiffness, <45yrs and >3m with:
- 4+ of: started before 35yrs, waking at night with pain, buttock pain, improves with movement and within 48hrs of NSAIDs, FHx, current/past arthritis or/+ psoriasis
or
- with 3 criteria and +ve HLA-B27 blood test
or
- suspected dactylitis
Ix for ankylosing spondylitis?
- Bloods= inflam markers raised; HLA-B27 +ve (positive in 90%)
- Plain x-ray of sacroiliac joints= diagnosis (may be normal in early disease)
- If X-ray -ve then MRI
- spirometry= restrictive defect
Later changes of ankylosing spondylitis on plain x-ray of sacroiliac joints?
sacroiliitis: subchondral erosions, sclerosis
squaring of lumbar vertebrae
‘bamboo spine’ (late & uncommon)
syndesmophytes: due to ossification of outer fibers of annulus fibrosus
chest x-ray: apical fibrosis
What would MRI in ankylosing spondylitis show?
signs of early inflam invl. sacroiliac joints (bone marrow oedema)
Why in ankylosing spondylitis does spirometry show a restrictive defect?
combination of pulmonary fibrosis, kyphosis and ankylosis of costoverebral joints
Mx of ankylosing spondylitis?
- regular exercise eg. swimming
- 1st= NSAIDs
- physio
- if peripheral joint invl. may consider DMARDs eg. sulphasalazine
- Anti-TNF therapy if persistent high disease despite other Tx eg. entanercept and adalimumab
Follow up for pt with ankylosing spondylitis?
- risk of osteoporosis and screening every 2yrs
- same day referral to opthal if acute anterior uveitis suspected
Compartment sydrome?
raised pressure within a closed anatomical space; will eventually compromise tissue perfusion resulting in necrosis
Compartment syndrome is a Cx that may occur following what?
fractures
or ischaemia reperfusion injury in vascular pts
2 fractures that may cause compartment syndrome?
supracondylar fractures and tibial shaft injuries
Sacroiliac joints?
joints that connect the sacrum (the base of the spine) to the ilium (the pelvis)
Features of compartment syndrome?
- Pain= esp on movement (even passive), XS use of breakthrough analgesia
- paraesthesia
- pallor
- paralysis of muscle group may occur
- arterial pulse may still be felt
Why may arterial pulsation still be felt in compartment syndrome?
as the necrosis occurs as a result of microvascular compromise
What does NOT rule out compartment syndrome?
presence of a pulse
Pt has fracture, has pain on movement (even passive) and is using excessive use of breakthrough analgesia?
think compartment syndrome
Diagnosis of compartment syndrome?
- measure intracompartmental pressure; >20mmHg pressure is abnormal and >40 is diagnostic
- typically no pathology on x-ray
fasciotomy?
surgical procedure that involves cutting the fascia, or connective tissue, around a muscle to relieve pressure and increase blood flow
limb saving procedure
Mx of compartment syndrome?
- prompt and extensive fasciotomies
- aggressive IV fluids
Compartment syndrome: why do pts require aggressive IV fluids?
Myoglobinuria may occur following fasciotomy and result in renal failure.
What may happen in fasciotomy for compartment syndrome?
if operator is inexperienced, smaller incisions may be performed and in the lower limb the deep muscles may be inadequately be decompressed
Compartment syndrome: what if muscle groups are frankly necrotic at fasiotomy?
should be debrided and amputation may be considered
How quick does death of muscle groups occur in compartment syndrome?
within 4-6hrs
Gout?
type of arthritis caused by monosodium urate crystals forming inside and around joints, causing sudden flares of severe pain, heat and swelling
Joints affected in gout?
any joint but most commonly= distal joints eg. toes, knees, ankles, finger joints
Most important RF for the development of gout?
hyperuricaemia
RFs for gout?
- hyperuricaemia
- increasing age
- FHx
- genetics
- obesity
- male
- diet
- postmenopausal
- medications
- CKD, HTN, DM
What type of diet is a RF for gout?
XS alcohol, sugary drinks, red meat, seafood
What drugs are RFs for gout?
diuretics (thiazides, furosemide), low-dose aspirin, ciclosporin, alcohol, cytotoxic agents, pyrazinamide
Cx of gout?
- CVD
- chronic arthritis
- CKD
- joint damage
- reduced QOL
- renal stones
- tophi
Tophi?
hard, stone-like deposits of monosodium urate crystals that form in the soft tissues, cartilage, tendons, or bones near joints
usually painless
eg. in gout
Presentation of gout?
rapid onset severe pain, redness and swelling in one or both first metatarsophalangeal joints. May be midfoot, ankle, knee, hand, wrist or elbow.
tophi
Ix for gout?
- clinical exam
- serum urate 6mg/dL (360micromol/L) or more confirms diagnosis
Mx for gout?
acute= NSAIDs or colchicine (until 1-2d after flare resolved) or short course oral corticosteroid (pred 30-35mg od 3-5d)
long term= urate-lowering therapy eg. allopurinol or febuxostat
Who should urate-lowering therapy eg. allopurinol be offered to pts with gout?
multiple/troublesome flares
CKD stage 3-5
on diuretic therapy
have tophi
or have chronic gout
Where can tophi in gout appear?
extensor surfaces of affected joints, Achilles tendons, dorsal aspect of hands and feet and in the helix of the ears. They suggest longstanding, untreated gout.
Most common joint affected in gout?
1st metatarsophalangeal joint (big toe)
Is gout monoarticular?
usually bit can be oligoarticular or rarely polyarticular
When does flare severity reach max intensity in gout?
within 24hrs
When to measure serum urate level for gout diagnosis?
diagnosis= 360micromol/L or more
- if lower but suspect gout repeat serum urate in 2-4w after flare settled
Diagnosis of gout?
- serum urate level 2-4w after flare has settled
if uncertain then:
- joint aspiration and microscopy of synovial fluid
- still uncertain the x-ray
Gout differential diagnosis?
- bursitis, tenosynovititis, cellulitis
- haemochromatosis
- psuedogout
- osteoarthritis
- psoriatic arthritis
- reactive arthritis
- RA
- septic arthritis
- trauma
What must be considered in any person who is systemically unwell (with or without a temperature) and an acutely painful, hot, swollen joint?
septic arthritis
Self-care advice for gout?
- rest and elevate limb
- keep joint exposed and in cool environment
- consider ice pack
Follow up following acute flare of gout?
4-6w after settled:
- serum urate
- review meds
form of microcrystal synovitis caused by the deposition of monosodium urate monohydrate in the synovium
gout
What causes gout?
chronic hyperuricaemia (uric acid >0.45mmol/l)
Gout episodes?
typically flares that can last several days then often symptom free episodes in between
Name 4 commonly affected joints in gout?
1st MTP joint= big toe
knee
ankle
wrist
Synovial fluid analysis in gout?
needle shaped negatively bifringent monosodium urate crystals under polarised light
X-ray findings in gout?
- joint effusion (early sign)
- well-defined ‘punched-out’ erosions with sclerotic margins in a juxta-articular distribution, often with overhanging edges
- relative preservation of joint space until late disease
- eccentric erosions
- no periarticular osteopenia (in contrast to rheumatoid arthritis)
- soft tissue tophi may be seen
MOA of colchicine used for acute flares of gout?
inhibits microtubule polymerization by binding to tubulin, interfering with mitosis. Also inhibits neutrophil motility and activity
Slow onset of action
Main side effect of colchicine?
diarrhoea
When should colchicine for acute gout be used with caution?
in renal impairment: reduce dose if GFR 10-50 and avoid if <10ml/min
Acute flare of gout, if pt is on allopurinol should this be continued alongside other drugs for acute flares?
yes continue allopurinol
if havent started it before, start once acute flare settled
Urate lowering therapy is particularly recommended for pts with gout when?
Now offer to all pts after 1st attack.
Esp:
- >= 2 attacks in 12 months
- tophi
- renal disease
- uric acid renal stones
- prophylaxis if on cytotoxics or diuretics
Allopurinol dose for gout?
initial dose of 100 mg od, with the dose titrated every few weeks to aim for a serum uric acid of < 360 µmol/l
a lower target uric acid level below 300 µmol/L may be considered for patients who have tophi, chronic gouty arthritis or continue to have ongoing frequent flares despite having a uric acid below 360 µmol/L
a lower initial dose if pt has a reduced eGFR
colchicine cover should be considered when starting allopurinol. NSAIDs can be used if colchicine cannot be tolerated.
Avoid what foods in gout?
food high in purines eg. liver, kidneys, seafood, oily fish (mackerel, sardines), red meat, yeast products
Other considerations in the Mx of gout?
- high vit C may lower serum uric acid
- maybe stop precipitating drugs eg. thiazides
Lesch-Nyhan syndrome?
hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyl transferase (HGPRTase) deficiency
x-linked recessive therefore only seen in boys
features: gout, renal failure, neurological deficits, learning difficulties, self-mutilation
What may cause hyperuricaemia (increased levels of uric acid)?
secondary to increased cell turnover or reduced renal excretion of uric acid
may be associated with hyperlipidaemia and HTN and metabolic syndrome
Hyperuricaemia caused by increased synthesis examples?
Lesch-Nyhan disease
myeloproliferative disorders
diet rich in purines
exercise
psoriasis
cytotoxics
Hyperuricaemia caused by decreased excretion examples?
drugs: low-dose aspirin, diuretics, pyrazinamide
pre-eclampsia
alcohol
renal failure
lead
Pseudogout?
form of microcrystal synovitis caused by the deposition of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystals in the synovium.
aka acute calcium pyrophosphate crystal deposition disease
Pseudogout RFs?
- increasing age
- haemochromatosis
- hyperparathyroidism
- low magnesium, low phosphate
- acromegaly
- Wilsons
Features of pseudogout?
knee, wrist and shoulders most commonly affected like gout just different cause
Gout vs pseudogout?
Gout is caused by monosodium urate monohydrate crystals; pseudogout is caused by calcium pyrophosphate (CPP) crystals
Joint aspiration findings in psuedogout?
weakly-positively birefringent rhomboid-shaped crystals
X-ray findings in pseudogout?
chondrocalcinosis
- in the knee this can be seen as linear calcifications of the meniscus and articular cartilage
Mx of psuedogout?
aspiration of joint fluid, to exclude septic arthritis
NSAIDs or colchicine intra-articular, intra-muscular or oral steroids as for gout
can use long term low dose colchicine in chronic to reduce flares
TUC eg. magnesium supplement if hypomagnesaemia
Ix for pseudogout?
- joint aspiration for microscopy diagnostic
- x-ray affected joints
can screen for RFs= ferritin (haemochromatosis), magnesium, thyroid function (hypothyroidism), inflam markers +ve, Ca and PTH (hyperparathyroidism)
Correct name now used instead of pseudogout?
calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease
Greater trochanteric pain syndrome?
regional pain syndrome where chronic intermittent pain is felt around the greater trochanter
What is the greater trochanter?
bony prominence on lateral aspect of the hip
tronchanteric bursitis?
inflam of a bursa adjacent to greater trochanter
Greater trochanteric pain syndrome is caused by what?
inflam or physical trauma in muscles, tendons, fascia or bursae
Common population affected by greater trochanteric pain syndrome?
women>men
40-60yrs
What other conditions is greater trochanteric pain syndrome typically seen with?
low back pain, osteoarthritis of knee, RA and fibromyalgia
Mx of greater trochanteric pain syndrome?
> 90% recover fully with conservative Tx eg. rest, pain relief, physio or corticosteroid injection
RFs for a poorer outcome of greater trochanteric pain syndrome?
higher initial pain intensity, longer duration of pain, greater movement restriction, higher functional impairment, older age
Diagnosis of greater trochanteric pain syndrome?
clinical
CP of greater trochanteric pain syndrome?
- lateral hip pain, worse with exercise
- point tenderness adjacent to greater trochanter
- when tendons & muscles attached to greater trochanter are put under tension on exam= point tenderness and pain
What should be excluded when diagnosing greater trochanteric pain syndrome?
sports hernia, osteoarthritis, lumbar nerve root compression, infection of bursa
Advice for greater trochanteric pain syndrome?
- usually self-limiting
- avoid activity that may worsen pain
- ice pack applied 10-20mins several times a day
- analgesia= paracetamol, NSAIDs
- weight loss
if initial Mx doesnt help then= peri-trochanteric corticosteroid injection and physio
Emergency referral in greater trochanteric pain syndrome?
- hip pain with systemic symptoms
- infection s&s
- known primary malignancy
- suspicion of pathological fracture
- sudden inability to bear weight
- Hx of fall
Urgent referral to ortho in greater trochanteric pain syndrome?
severe pain unresponsive to analgesia and persistent loss of function
Referral to ortho for greater trochanteric pain syndrome?
<40, persistent, affects ADLs, not responded to 3m physio
painful irritable and stiff hip affecting ADLs
Features of greater trochanteric pain syndrome?
- chronic lateral hip/thigh/buttock pain
- intermittent or persistent
- gradual
- worsen over time
- may radiate down lateral aspect of thigh but rarely below knee
- aggravated by physical activity eg. walking and with pressure on that side of body eg. lying down
- pain on palpation of greater trochanter
Tests to examine for greater trochanteric pain syndrome?
- Trendelenburg’s
- Single leg stance
- Hip flexion, abduction, external rotation (FABER)
- Hip flexion, adduction, external rotation (FADER)
- resisted active abduction
- resisted internal rotation
- resisted external rotation
Gait in greater trochanteric pain syndrome?
Antalgic gait — there is a shortened stance on the affected leg, and when walking, less time is spent bearing weight on the affected side than on the other.
Trendelenburg gait — there is a lateral trunk lean towards the supported limb during the stance phase.
On palpation of the greater trochanter in greater trochanteric pain syndrome, where is tenderness elicited?
at a point over the gluteus medius tendon or its insertion into the greater trochanter.
Pain on greater trochanter palpation?
greater trochanteric pain syndrome
Trendelenburgs test
With the person standing, they are observed from behind while lifting each foot off the ground in turn.
A positive test is the pelvis dipping (rather than staying horizontal or rising slightly) on lifting the unaffected leg.
Single leg stance test?
The person is asked to remain standing on their affected leg with their contralateral knee flexed to 90 degrees for 30 seconds using a finger on the unaffected side on a wall for balance.
The test is positive if there is lateral hip pain within the 30 seconds.
Hip flexion, abduction, external rotation (FABER test)
The lateral malleolus of the test leg is placed above the patella of the contralateral leg, the pelvis stabilized via the opposite anterior superior iliac spine and the knee passively lowered so the hip moves into abduction and external rotation. If there is lateral hip pain, the test is positive.
Hip flexion, adduction, external rotation (FADER test)
With the person lying supine, the hip is passively flexed to 90°, adducted, and externally rotated to end of range. If there is lateral hip pain, the test is positive.
Resisted active abduction
With the person lying supine their hip joints are placed in the neutral position (legs together and straight out). The affected hip joint is abducted by 45 degrees while the person resists the movement. If there is lateral hip pain, the test is positive.
Resisted internal rotation
With the person lying supine, the affected hip joint is positioned at 45 degrees flexion and maximal external rotation. The hip joint is internally rotated while the person resists the movement. If there is lateral hip pain, the test is positive.
Resisted external rotation
With the person lying supine, the affected hip joint is positioned at 45 degrees flexion and maximal internal rotation. The hip joint is externally rotated while the person resists the movement. If there is lateral hip pain, the test is positive.
What may greater trochanteric pain syndrome be referred to as?
trochanteric bursitis
What is greater trochanteric pain syndrome due to?
repeated movement of the fibroelastic iliotibial band and is most common in women aged 50-70 years.
2 features of greater trochanteric pain syndrome?
1) pain over the lateral side of hip/thigh
2) tenderness on palpation of the greater trochanter
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA)?
arthritis occurring in pt <16yrs and lasts for >6m
3 types of Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA)?
- systemic onset= aka Still’s disease
- polyarticular= more than 4 joints
- pauciarticular= 4 or less joints
Pauciarticular JIA?
4 or less joints are affected
60% of cases of JIA
Features of pauciarticular JIA?
joint pain and swelling: usually medium sized joints e.g. knees, ankles, elbows
limp
ANA may be positive in JIA - associated with anterior uveitis
Another name for systemic onset JIA?
Still’s disease
Features of systemic onset JIA?
pyrexia
salmon-pink rash
lymphadenopathy
arthritis
uveitis
anorexia and weight loss
Ix for systemic onset JIA?
ANA may be positive, especially in oligoarticular JIA
rheumatoid factor is usually negative
What is used to rule out clinically significant foot and ankle fractures to reduce the use of x-ray imaging?
Ottawa Ankle Rule:
1) location of pain= malleolar or midfoot
2) bone tenderness location
2) inability to weight bear both immediately after injury AND in ED
When is an ankle x-ray only required in ?ankle fracture?
if any pain in malleolar zone and any one of:
- bony tenderness at the lateral malleolar zone (from the tip of the lateral malleolus to include the lower 6 cm of posterior border of the fibular)
- bony tenderness at the medial malleolar zone (from the tip of the medial malleolus to the lower 6 cm of the posterior border of the tibia)
- inability to walk four weight bearing steps immediately after the injury and in the emergency department
In what pts is the hip a common site of fracture?
esp in osteoporotic elderly females
What is a risk in displaced hip fractures?
avascular necrosis as the blood supply to the femoral head runs up the neck
Features of hip fracture?
- shortened and externally rotated leg
- pain
- may be able to weight bear if non-displaced or incomplete neck of femur fracture
Pts with non-displaced or incomplete neck of femur fractures may be able to do what?
weight bear
Classification of hip fractures based on location?
intracapsular (subcapital) or extracapsular
Intracepsular (subcapital) hip fractures?
from the edge of the femoral head to the insertion of the capsule of the hip joint
Extracapsular hip fracture?
can either be trochanteric or subtrochanteric (lesser trochanter is the dividing line)
Classification of hip fractures?
Garden system
Garden system classification for hip fractures?
Type I: Stable fracture with impaction in valgus
Type II: Complete fracture but undisplaced
Type III: Displaced fracture, usually rotated and angulated, but still has boney contact
Type IV: Complete boney disruption
What type of hip fracture according to the Garden system classification is blood supply disruption most common?
types III and IV
2 types of intracapsular hip fracture?
- undisplaced fracture
- displaced fracture
Mx of intracapsular undisplaced hip fracture?
internal fixation
or hemiarthroplasty if unfit
Mx of intracapsular displaced hip fracture?
replacement arthroplasty (total hip replacement or hemiarthroplasty) to all pts
total hip replacement favoured over hemiarthoplasty if pt= able to walk idependently outdoors with no more than use of a stick; not cognitively impaired and med fit for anaesthesia and the procedure
Mx of extracapsular hip fracture?
if stable intertrochantic fractures= dynamic hip screw
if reverse oblique, transverse or subtrochanteric fractures= intramedullary device
Most common site of stress fracture?
metatarsals
Stress fracture?
when fracture occurs due to repeated mechanical stress
Metatarsal fractures>
quite common; can be limited to 1 metatarsal or multiple eg. by direct trauma or crush injuries
Most common metatarsal affected in fracture?
proximal 5th (also most common site of midfoot fractures)
1st is least commonly fractured
5th metatarsal fractures?
Proximal avulsion fractures (pseudo-Jones fractures)= most common type. Occurs at the proximal tuberosity. Usually associated with a lateral ankle sprain and often follow inversion injuries of the ankle.
Jones fractures= much less common. This is a transverse fracture at the metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction.
Metatarsal stress fractures?
occurs in otherwise healthy athletes eg. runners
most common site of met stress fractures is 2nd metatarsal shaft
5th metatarsal fractures usually associated with what?
lateral ankle sprain and often follow inversion injuries of the ankle
Features of metatarsal fracture?
pain and bony tenderness
swelling
antalgic gait
Ix for metatarsal fractures?
- x-rays
- isotope scan or MRI= in case of stress fractures as x-ray often normal.
When may isotope scan or MRI be preferred to x-ray in metatarsal fractures?
help establish stress fractures, may appear normal on x-ray
x-ray for metatarsal fractures?
distinguish between displaced and non-displaced fractures to help guide Mx
stress fractures normally appear normal but sometimes there is a periosteal reaction seen 2-3w later
Patella
sesamoid bone that develops within the the quadriceps tendon (dividing it into the quadriceps tendon superiorly and the patella ligament inferiorly).
Protects the knee from physical trauma and plays important role in the extensor mechanism of the knee.
How does the patella increase efficieny of quadriceps movement (extensor mechanism of knee)?
The quadriceps apply force around a centre of rotation (the knee joint). The patella increases the distance of the quadriceps tendon from this centre of rotation thereby increasing its efficiency (if you imagine it is easier to open a door by pushing or pulling near the handle as opposed to near the door hinge).
Patella anatomy?
roughly triangular in coronal and axial planes. The anterior surface is flat and the posterior surface is composed of a medial and lateral facet and articulates with the femur at the patellofemoral joint.
How can the patella be injured?
- direct or indirect means
- consider in the context of the entire extensor mechanism of the knee
- consider posterior surface of the patella as any disruption of the patellofemoral joint may lead to secondary osteoarthritis down the line.
On the posterior surface of the patella, any disruption of the patellofemoral joint may lead to what?
secondary osteoarthritis down the line
Direct injury causing patella fracture?
direct blow or trauma to front of knee eg. fall or dashboard injury
usually an undisplaced crack or comminuted fracture, but with an intact extensor mechanism
Indirect injury causing patella fracture?
when quads forcefully contract against a block to knee extension
eg. when someone catches their foot against a solid obstacle and in order to prevent themselves from falling the quads contract forcefully
results in transverse patella fracture with possible disruption of the extensor mechanism
Direct injury to patella may result in what?
undisplaced crack or comminuted fracture, but with an intact extensor mechanism
indirect injury to patella may result in what?
transverse patella fracture with possible disruption of the extensor mechanism.
Clinical features of patella fracture?
- swelling and bruising
- open wound= ? open fracture (more urgent Mx)
- pain and tenderness around knee, localised to patella and palpable gap may be appreciable
- if able to straight leg raise= extensor mechanism is grossly intact; may be difficult due to pain so have pt lie on side to eliminate gravity
Ix for patella fractures?
plain films, min of 2 views required (AP and lateral)
if diagnosis still in doubt, skyline views can be taken but is uncomfortable and difficult to obtain
Mx of undisplaced patella fractures, particularly vertical fractures with an intact extensor mechanism?
can be managed non-operatively in a hinged knee brace for 6w and pt allowed to fully weight bear
Mx of displaced patella fractures and those with loss of extensor mechanisms?
consider operative Mx with either tension band wire, inter-fragmentary screws or cerclage wires
then pt placed in hinged knee brace for 4-6w and allowed to fully weight bear
Tendinopathy?
term describing pain, swelling and impaired function of the tendon
Achilles tendon?
thickest and strongest tendon in the body; made up of fibres from the gastrocneumius and soleus muscles
Achilles tendon pathology is common in who?
active people
Cx of achilles tendon injury?
tendon rupture, negative impact on a pts ability to work and carry out ADLs, limitation in sports activity
Signs and symptoms of Achilles tendinopathy?
- aching (or sharp) pain in heel, aggravated by activity or pressure to the area
- stiffness in the tendon, may occur in morning or after period of prolonged sitting
- tenderness, swelling, crepitus along the tendon
Suspected achilles tendon rupture?
same day assessment by ortho specialist
Mx of achilles tendinopathy?
- Mx of underlying cause
- cold packs/ice after acute injury
- analgesia for pain relief eg. paracetamol
- rest, exercise when pain allows
What if symptoms of Achilles tendinopathy fails to improve within 7-10d?
refer to physio
Chronic achilles tendinopathy or fails to respond to Mx?
refer to sports physician or ortho
Pain in achilles tendinopathy?
ache or sharp pain in heel
- worse with activity or pressure to area
- Gradual onset of pain 2–6 cm proximal to the Achilles tendon insertion that limits activity suggests mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy.
- Pain and swelling at the insertion to the posterior calcaneus with impairment of function suggests insertional tendinopathy.
- some symptoms at both the insertion and mid-portion.
Stiffness in achilles tendinopathy?
may occur in morning or after period of prolonged sitting
What can be used to assess pain and severity with activity win people with achilles tendinopathy?
Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment-Achilles (VISA-A) questionnaire
RFs for achilles tendinopathy?
DM, dyslipidaemia, fluoroquinolone use
Diagnosis of achilles tendinopathy?
- clinical: examine if no rupture
- imaging not usually recommended
- Ix for ULC= lipid profile, HbA1c, ?fluoroquinolone use
Examination findings for achilles tendinopathy (do not examine if achilles tendon rupture)?
redness, swelling, and asymmetry
Palpate along the length of the tendon for tenderness, heat, crepitus, thickening, and nodularity.
Tenderness on palpation of the mid-portion of the tendon is indicative of mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy.
Tenderness on palpation around the distal 2 cm of the tendon is usually found in insertional Achilles tendinopathy.
Evaluate the range of motion of the ankle. Pain worsens with passive dorsiflexion of the ankle.
Hop and heel-raise endurance tests, as appropriate.
CP of achilles tendinopathy?
- sudden pain back of leg, may be audible snap
- may occur with running or exercise, may be like being kicked or hit by a racket
- 1/3 with complete rupture say no pain
- aching of calf, swelling, mild bruising, weakness when pushing off with affected foot
- difficulty weight bearing
In some cases, why may pt with achilles tendinopathy be able to walk?
other plantar flexors may mask the tendon injury
How to exclude achilles tendon rupture?
Simmonds triad (angle of declination, palpation, and the calf squeeze test)
Simmonds triad examination to exclude achilles tendon rupture?
(angle of declination, palpation, and the calf squeeze test)
- abnormal angle of declination= rupture may lead to greater dorsiflexion of the injured ankle and foot compared with the uninjured limb.
- Feel for a gap in the tendon. No gap may be felt because of local swelling or bleeding. Bruising may be seen.
- Gently and sequentially squeeze the calf muscles= in acute rupture of the Achilles tendon the injured foot will typically remain in the neutral position when the calf is squeezed.
Why may the diagnosis of chronic achilles tendon rupture be difficult?
- pain and swelling often subsided and the gap may have filled with fibrous tissue.
- Calf muscles may be wasted.
- Other muscles may facilitate plantar flexion.
Differential diagnosis for achilles tendoninopathy?
True tendon pain (from rupture or tendinopathy) is usually confined to the tendon itself.
Retrocalcaneal bursitis.
Plantaris tendinopathy.
Dislocation of the peroneal or other plantar flexor tendons.
Posterior ankle impingement.
Haglund’s deformity.
Os trigonum syndrome.
Fascial tears.
Calcaneal fracture.
Irritation or neuroma of the sural nerve.
Fat pad irritation.
Systemic inflammatory disease.
Tx for achilles tendinopathy in secondary care (if conservative measures fail)?
non-surgical= Eccentric exercise, or a heavy-load, slow-speed (concentric/eccentric) exercise programme (if not already tried); Extracorporeal shock-wave therapy (ESWT) — acoustic shockwaves are passed through the skin to the affected tissue.
Surgery= if chronic or not responsive to Tx; debridement and removal of diseased areas of tendon
Most common cause of posterior heel pain?
achilles tendon disorders
Examples of achilles tendon disorders?
tendinopathy (tendinitis), partial tear, complete rupture
What are associated with achilles tendon disorders?
floroquinolone use eg. ciprofloxacin
hypercholesterolaemia (predisposes to tendon xanthomata)
DM
Gradual onset of posterior heel pain that is worse following activity; morning pain and stiffness common?
achilles tendinopathy (tendiniti)
3 supportive Mx for achilles tendinopathy?
- simple analgesia
- reduction in activities
- calf muscle eccentric exercies
playing a sport or running; an audible ‘pop’ in the ankle, sudden onset significant pain in the calf or ankle or the inability to walk or continue the sport
achilles tendon rupture
How is Simmond’s triad examination be conducted to exclude achilles tendon rupture?
ask pt to lie prone with their feet over the edge of the bed. Look for an abnormal angle of declination; Achilles tendon rupture may lead to greater dorsiflexion of the injured foot compared to the uninjured limb.
Feel for a gap in the tendon and gently squeeze the calf muscles if there is an acute rupture of the Achilles tendon the injured foot will stay in the neutral position when the calf is squeezed.
Imaging of choice for suspected achilles tendon rupture?
USS
Suspected achilles tendon rupture?
acute referral to ortho and USS
Bony components of ankle joint include what
distal tibia and fibula and the superior aspect of the talus
- form a mortise with the body of the talus acting as the tendon
- arrangement is secured by ligamentous structures
Ligaments in the ankle?
1) syndesmosis binds the distal tibia and fibula together (another example of a syndesmosis is the distal radio-ulnar joint). It is composed of the anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament (AITFL), posterior inferior tibiofibular ligament (PITFL), interosseous ligament (IOL) and the interosseous membrane.
2) Distal fibular= secured to the to the talus by the anterior and posterior talofibular ligaments (ATFL and PTFL) and to the calcaneus by the calcaneofibular ligament.
Sometimes referred to collectively as the lateral collateral ligaments.
3) Distal tibia= secured to the talus by the deltoid ligament, in view of its triangular shape.
Sprain?
stretching, partial or complete tear of a ligament
Types of ankle sprains?
- high ankle sprain= invl syndesmosis
- low ankle sprain= invl lateral collateral ligaments
Presentation of low ankle sprain?
- injury to ATFL most common
- inversion injury common mechanism
- pain, swelling, tenderness over affected ligaments and sometimes bruising
- able to weight bear unless severe
Most common type of ankle sprain?
low sprain
Inversion injury to the ankle can cause what?
low ankle sprain
Grades of low ankle sprain?
Grade I (mild)= stretch or micro tear to ligament; minimal bruising/swelling; weight bearing normal
Grade II= partial tear; moderate bruising/swelling; minimal pain on weight bearing
Grade III (severe)= complete tear; severe swelling and bruising; severe pain on weight bearing
Ix for low ankle sprain?
- 15% associated with fracture so x-ray according to Ottawa ankle rules
- MRI if persistent pain= can evaluate perineal tendons
Tx for low ankle sprain?
- RICE= rest, ice, compression, elevation
- occasionally= removable orthosis, cast and/or crutches may be needed short term
- fails or signif joint instability= MRI and surgery but rare
Presentation of high ankle sprain?
- injury to syndesmosis
- rare and severe
- caused by external rotation of food causing talus to push fibula laterally
- weight bearing painful
- pain when tibia and fibula squeezed together at mid calf (Hopkin’s squeeze test)
Hopkin’s squeeze test?
high ankle sprain
Pain when the tibia and fibula are squeezed together at the level of the mid-calf
Injury to ankle caused by external rotation of foot causing talus to push fibula laterally?
high ankle sprain
Ix for high ankle sprain?
- x-ray= may show widening of tibiofibular joint (diastasis) or ankle mortise
- MRI= if high suspicion but normally just plain films
Tx of high ankle sprain?
- if no diastasis= non weight bearing orthosis or cast until pain stops
- diastasis or failed non-op Mx= operative fixation
What are isolated injuries to the deltoid ligament in ankle associated with?
they are rare
fracture so look for Maisonneuve fracture of the proximal fibula.
Ankle mortise anatomically reduced= same Tx as low ankle sprain
- if not then reduction and fixation
Common cause of lateral knee pain in runners?
iliotibial band syndrome
iliotibial band syndrome?
common cause of lateral knee pain in runners (1 in 10 regular runners)
tenderness 2-3cm above lateral joint line
Mx of iliotibial band syndrome?
- activity modification and iliotibial band stretches
- no improvement then physio
Causes of knee pain?
osteoarthritis, injuries (muscle strain, ligament damage, fractures); inflam conditions; infection; tumours; referred pain from hip or lumbosacral spine; bursitis
RFs for knee pain?
- increasing age
- obesity
- knee-straining work
- participation in sport
Red flags for knee pain?
- infection (septic arthritis or osteomyelitis)
- tumours
- inflam polyarthritis
- signif bony or soft tissue injury eg. fractures, dislocation and tendon/ligament rupture
When is admission or referral for immediate hospital assessment indicated in knee pain?
septic arthritis, slipped capital femoral epiphysis, fracture, neurovascular damage, quadriceps or patellar tendon rupture, severe soft tissue injury with gross instability, first-time traumatic patellar dislocation, or a recurrent dislocation associated with moderate or severe swelling.
When is admission or referral for immediate hospital assessment indicated in knee pain in a child?
limp or suspected Henoch-Schönlein purpura.
infection (such as fever, erythema, swelling) or severe pain, swelling, instability or inability to weight bear in association with an acute injury.
What if signif soft tissue injury is suspected in pt with acute knee pain following trauma?
acute knee clinic (admission or immediate assessment)
Ottawa knee rule?
determine whether an X-ray is needed in people over 2 years with a suspected knee fracture.
Only required after a knee injury for people with any of these findings:
1) Inability to weight bear both immediately and during the consultation for four steps (inability to transfer weight twice onto each lower limb regardless of limping).
2) Inability to flex the knee to 90 degrees.
3) Tenderness of the head of the fibula.
4) Isolated tenderness of the patella (no bone tenderness of the knee other than the patella).
5) Age 55 years or older.
Direct blow to the knee can cause what?
anterior knee= patellar fracture or if knee in flexion can cause PCL injury; hyperextended knee can cause ACL injury
lateral knee= medial collateral ligament injury or patellar dislocation
medial knee= lateral collateral ligament injury (uncommon) or patellar dislocation
Knee injury: what can sudden decleration or stopping cause?
ACL injury
Twisting or pivoting can injury the knee how?
can injure the menisci or cause ACL injury. If twisted when the knee is extended, patellar subluxation or dislocation can occur.
Hyperextension of the knee can cause what?
ACL and PCL injury
Anterior knee pain may be caused by what?
Patellar subluxation or dislocation.
Osgood-Schlatter disease.
Patellar tendonitis.
Patellofemoral pain syndrome.
Patellar or quadriceps tendon rupture.
Patellofemoral joint arthritis.
Medial knee pain may be caused by what?
Medial collateral ligament sprain.
Medial meniscal tear.
Pes anserine bursitis.
Medial plica syndrome.
Medial compartment arthritis.
Lateral knee pain may be caused by what?
Lateral collateral ligament sprain.
Lateral meniscal tear.
Iliotibial band tendonitis.
Lateral compartment arthritis.
Posterior knee pain may be caused by what?
Baker’s cyst.
Posterior cruciate ligament injury.
Posterior horn meniscal tears.
What does Lachman’s test test for?
ACL tear
What does the anterior drawer/draw test test for?
ACL tear
What does the pivot shift test test for?
ACL tear
What does the posterior drawer/draw test test for?
PCL tear
What does the posterior sag test test for?
PCL tear
What does the valgus stress test test for?
Medial collateral ligament injury
(Joint line tenderness may also indicate meniscal tear)
What does the varus stress test test for?
Lateral collateral ligament injury
(Joint line tenderness may also indicate meniscal tear)
What does the patellar apprehension test test for?
Subluxing or dislocating patella
What does the McMurray test test for?
meniscal tear
What does the Thessaly test test for?
meniscal tear
Testing for effusion in knee?
- patellar tap test
- stroke test
- cross fluctuance test for larger effusions
Most commonly injured knee ligament?
ACL
Common mechanisms of injury to the ACL?
- lateral blow to knee
- skiing
- non-contact= sudden twisting or awkward landing (most common) eg. hyperextension
Features of ACL injury?
- sudden popping sound
- knee swelling
- instability
- feeling that knee will give way
2 tests to test for ACL injury?
anterior draw test and Lachman’s test
Anterior draw test to test for ACL injury?
the patient lies supine with the knee at 90 degrees
the examiner should place one hand behind the tibia and the other grasping the patient’s thigh. It is important that the examiner’s thumb be on the tibial tuberosity
the tibia is pulled forward to assess the amount of anterior motion of the tibia in comparison to the femur
an intact ACL should prevent forward translational movement
Lachman’s test to test for ACL injury?
variant of anterior draw test, but the knee is at 20-30 degrees
evaluate the anterior translation of the tibia in relation to the femur and is considered a variant
more reliable than anterior draw test
Knee pain= meniscal tear typically results from what?
twisting injuries
Knee pain= meniscal tear features?
pain worse on straightening the knee
knee may ‘give way’
displaced meniscal tears may cause knee locking
tenderness along the joint line
Test to test for meniscal tear (knee pain)?
Thessaly’s test - weight bearing at 20 degrees of knee flexion, patient supported by doctor, postive if pain on twisting knee
Thessaly’s test - weight bearing at 20 degrees of knee flexion, patient supported by doctor, postive if pain on twisting knee
Condition?
meniscal tear
Common knee problems in children and young adults?
- Chondromalacia patellae
- Osgood-Schlatter disease
(tibial apophysitis) - Osteochondritis dissecans
- Patellar subluxation
- Patellar tendonitis
Referred knee pain may come from where?
hip problems such as slipped upper femoral epiphysis
Key features of chondromalacia patellae?
Softening of the cartilage of the patella
Common in teenage girls
Characteristically anterior knee pain on walking up and down stairs and rising from prolonged sitting
Usually responds to physiotherapy
Key features of Osgood-Schlatter disease
(tibial apophysitis)?
seen in sporty teens
pain, tenderness and swelling over tibial tubercle
Key features of osteochondritis dissecans?
Knee pain after exercise
Intermittent swelling and locking
In children and young adults
Key features of Patellar subluxation?
Medial knee pain due to lateral subluxation of the patella
Knee may give way
in children and young adults
Key features of Patellar tendonitis?
More common in athletic teenage boys
Chronic anterior knee pain that worsens after running
Tender below the patella on examination
Osgood-Schlatter disease?
apophysitis of the tibial tuberosity that causes anterior knee pain during adolescence and is usually self-limiting
Osgood-Schlatter disease is thought to occur as a result of what?
repetitive strain from the patella tendon at its insertion on the ossification centre (apophysis) of the tibial tuberosity
Apophysis?
a normal developmental outgrowth of a bone which arises from a separate ossification centre, and fuses to the bone later in development; usually where muscle, tendon or ligament inserts
apophysitis= inflam of this
ossification= process of making new bone
ossification centre= area this happens
RFs for Osgood-Schlatter disease?
age= during growth spurts in adolescence
sports eg. running, jumping, repetitive bending of knee
biomechanical factors= quad muscle tightness, reduced flexibility of hamstrings
Type of knee pain in Osgood-Schlatter disease?
- unilateral (70%)
- during growth spurts (8-12yrs girls, 12-15yrs boys)
- develops slowly, mild and intermittent but can progress to continuous and severe
- fluctuates
- exacerbated by activity eg. running, jumping, kneeling
- improves with rest and skeletal maturity
- settles over w to m but can take 1-2yrs to resolve
- 10% persist into adulthood= chronic pain, decreased lower body strength
Exam findings in Osgood-Schlatter disease?
tenderness over tibial tuberosity that is provoked by knee extension against resistance, swelling or bony enlargement of the tibial tuberosity
normal passive ROM and absence of effusion
tenderness over tibial tuberosity that is provoked by knee extension against resistance, swelling or bony enlargement of the tibial tuberosity
Osgood-Schlatter disease
Ix for Osgood-Schlatter disease?
- clinical unless features of other causes of knee pain eg. persists at night or after rest, systemic symptoms, sudden after trauma, bone/joint pain at other sites
- routine x-ray not recommended to confirm diagnosis
Mx of Osgood-Schlatter disease?
- paracetamol +/or NSAIDs
- protective knee pads when kneeling
- intermittent ice packs over tibial tuberosity (10-15mins up to 3x d)
- exercise modification & muscle stretching exercises= swimming, cycling, straight leg raises
Osgood-Schlatter disease: what if pain does not improve or it worsens despite Mx?
- reassess cause: refer to paeds or ortho surgon
- physio referral
- persist into adulthood= ortho surgeon is symptoms affecting functioning
Differential diagnosis for Osgood-Schlatter disease (knee pain)?
- tumour
- juvenile idiopathic arthritis
- referred pain from hip= SUFE, transient synovitis; perthes
- trauma
- infection= septic arthritis or osteomyelitis
- osteochondritis dissecans, patellofemoral pain syndrome, chondromalacia patellae, and patellar dislocation or subluxation.
Preventative strategies for Osgood-Schlatter disease?
regular quadriceps and hamstring stretching and cross-training (swimming, cycling)
Most common cause of heel pain seen in adults?
plantar fasciitis
Pain in plantar fasciitis?
heel pain usually worse around the medial calcaneal tuberosity
Mx of plantar fasciitis?
rest feet where possible
wear shoes with good arch support and cushioned heels
insoles and heel pads may help
- analgesia and ice pack; consider short term USS guided corticosteroid injections
- if no better= refer to ortho or podiatrist or physio
Plantar fasciitis?
persistent pain associated with degeneration of plantar fascia as result of repetitive microtears in the contracted fascia
common 40-60yrs
Characteristic symptoms of plantar fasciitis?
- insidious onset
- intense pain during 1st steps after waking or period of inactivity
- pain reduces with moderate activity but worsens later during day or after long periods of standing/walking
Signs of plantar fasciitis?
Tenderness on palpation of the plantar heel area (esp localized around the medial calcaneal tuberosity).
Limited ankle dorsiflexion range (with the knee in extension).
Positive ‘Windlass test’ (reproduction of pain by extension of the first metatarsophalangeal joint).
Tightness of the Achilles tendon.
An antalgic gait (abnormal walking to avoid pain) or limping.
Differential diagnosis of plantar fasciitis?
Achilles tendonitis.
Calcaneal stress fractures.
Fat pad atrophy.
Sub-calcaneal bursitis.
Other less common neuro and MSK causes, such as nerve entrapment, peripheral neuropathy, plantar fibromatosis, and plantar fascia rupture.
Neoplasm and vascular insufficiency (very rare).
Diagnosis of plantar fasciitis?
clinical
Most people with plantar fasciitis will make full recovery within how long?
1yr
Osteoarthritis (OA)?
long term disorder of synovial joints which occurs when damage triggers repair processes leading to structural changes within a joint, with features of localised cartilage loss, remodelling of adjacent bone and formation of osteophytes, and mild synovitis
3 symptoms of osteoarthritis?
pain, stiffness and loss of function
What joints can be involved in osteoarthritis?
any synovial joint= knees, hips, small joints of hand most common
Flare of osteoarthritis?
sudden, sustained increase in symptoms for at least 24hrs, worse than usual patterns and lasts 3-8d
Causes of osteoarthritis?
multifactorial: genetics, biological (age, obesity), biomechanical (joint injury and damage)
Flares of osteoarthritis?
acute-on-chronic flares
may fluctuate
Cx of osteoarthritis?
joint deformity and chronic pain
Features of osteoarthritis?
- activity related joint pain= 1 or few joints at any one time; develops over m-yrs
- no morning stiffness or for <30mins
- functional limitation
Signs:
- bony swelling
- joint deformity
- restricted and painful ROM
- mild synovitis/joint effusion
- crepitus
- joint instability
Diagnosis of osteoarthritis?
- clinical= typical features, posture, gait, BMI, atypical features, other sources of pain
- if uncertain= joint x-ray
Mx of osteoarthritis?
- self care
- simple analgesia= topical NSAIDs (ibuprofen 5% gel 3x d); or oral 2nd line
- refer to MSK MDT= intra-articular corticosteroid injections (work for 2-10w); assistive aids; therapeutic exercise with education (‘structured Tx package’)
- ineffective after 3m= ortho surgeon (?joint replacement)
Hand OA?
typically affects 1st carpometacarpal joint (CMC) at base of thumb, distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint and the proximal interpahalngeal (PIP) joint
- wasting of thenar muscles at base of thumb
- CMC= fixed flexion deformity with hyperextension of distal joints
- advanced= squaring at joint; ulnar or radial deviation
- mucoid cysts
- Heberden’s and Bouchard’s nodes
Why in advaced hand OA may you get ‘squaring’ at the joint?
caused by subluxation (partial dislocation), formation of osteophytes and remodelling of bone
Mucoid cysts in OA of hand?
(painful mucus-filled cysts) adjacent to the joint on the dorsum of the finger, which may cause longitudinal ridging of the nail.
Nodes in OA of the hand?
Heberden’s= bony nodules on the dorsum of the finger next to the DIP joints
Bouchard’s nodes= next to the PIP joints
Hip OA may present with what?
deep pain in anterior groin on walking or climbing stairs
possible referred pain to lateral thigh, buttock, anterior thigh, knee and ankle
painful restriction of internal rotation with hip flexed
painful restriction of internal rotation with hip flexed
OA of the hip
What may be present in hip OA when the disease is advanced?
Trendelenburg gait
A fixed flexion external rotation deformity, with compensatory increased lumbar lordosis and pelvic tilt. The lower limb can be significantly shortened.
Trendelenburg gait?
in advanced hip OA
a lurch towards the affected hip with less time spent weight-bearing on that side and the pelvis tilting down on the unaffected side, caused by wasting and weakness of the gluteal and anterior thigh muscles
Knee OA?
typically bilateral and symmetrical
medial tibiofemoral (causes anteromedial pain on walking), lateral tibiofemoral (anterolateral pain on walking) or patellofemoral compartments (anterior knee pain worsened on incline or going down stairs; aching on prolonged sitting relieved my standing)
pain localsied to affected compartment
Associated features in knee OA?
Giving way — due to altered patella tracking, weak quadriceps muscles, severe patellofemoral involvement, and altered load-bearing mechanics.
Locking (inability to straighten the knee) — suggests loose meniscal cartilage in the joint.
Crepitus and tenderness along the joint line or with pressure on the patella.
Restricted flexion and extension.
weakness of the quadriceps is suggested if…
passive extension of the knee joint is greater than active extension
What may be present in advanced knee OA?
Bony swelling of the femoral condyles and lateral tibial plateau.
Varus (bow-legged), or less commonly valgus (knock-knee), deformity.
An antalgic gait.
X-ray findings in OA (done if uncertain or atypical features)?
subchondral bone thickening and/or cysts
osteophyte formation (new bone formation at joint margins)
loss or narrowing of the joint space (provides an estimate of the severity of cartilage damage).
Self care advice for pt with OA?
- self-care= info, weight loss, good footwear
- exercise= aerobic and muscle strengthening
- physiological support
Common joints affected in osteoarthritis?
DIPs
CMC joint (base of thumb)
Knees
Hips
L spine
C spine (c spondylosis)
DIPS or PIPS in osteoarthritis?
DIPS
Mneumonic for X-ray changes in osteoarthritis?
L.oss of joint space
O.steophytes
S.ubarticular scleorsis
S.ubchondral cysts
Signs in the hands in osteoarthritis?
- Heberden’s nodes (DIPs)
- Bouchard’s nodes (PIPs)
- Squaring at base of thumb (CMC joint)
- weak grip and reduced ROM
When can osteoarthritis be diagnosed clinically?
> 45yrs, typical pain and no morning stiffness (or <30mins)
What should be co-prescribed alongside oral NSAIDs (eg. in osteoarthritis when topical NSAIDs don’t work)?
PPI for gastroprotection
NSAIDs should be used in caution with pts with high BP, why?
they cause HTN by blocking prostaglandins (prostaglandins cause vasodilation)
Why should NSAIDs (ibuprofen and naproxen) be used cautiously in older pts and those on anticoags (aspirin, DOAC) eg. for osteoarthritis?
use short term for flares as:
- GI Cx= peptic ulcers, gastritis
- Renal= AKI (eg. acute tubular necrosis) and CKD
- CVD= HTN, HF, MI, stroke
- exacerbate asthma
Most common presentation of OA (joint)?
knee
then hip
RFs for OA of the hip?
- increasing age
- female
- obesity
- developmental dysplasia of hip
chronic history of groin ache following exercise and relieved by rest
osteoarthritis of hip
Red flags that may suggest an alternative cause in OA of the hip?
rest pain
night pain
morning stiffness >2hrs
What can be used to assess severity of OA of the hip?
Oxford Hip Score
Ix for OA of hip?
clinical
if atypical features= plain x-rays
Definitive Tx for OA of the hip?
total hip replacement
Cx of total hip replacement?
perioperative= VTE,
intraoperative fracture, nerve injury, surgical site infection
leg length discrepancy
posterior dislocation= may occur during extremes of hip flexion; typically presents acutely with a ‘clunk’, pain and inability to weight bear
on examination there is internal rotation and shortening of the affected leg
Most common reason for revision of total hip replacement?
aseptic loosening
- prosthetic joint infection
Summary of osteoarthritis Mx?
1) weight loss; local muscle strenthening exercises & aerobic fitness
1) topical NSAIDs
2) oral NSAIDs + PPI
3rd line) intra-articular steroid injections (2-10w relief)
4) fail= joint replacement
+ walking aids
can use paracetamol short term for flares (only if infrequent) but DO NOT use opioids
Osteomalacia?
softening of bones secondary to low vit D that in turn lead to decreased bone mineral density
Osteomalacia in children vs adults?
children= called rickets
adults= osteomalacia
Causes of osteomalacia?
- vit D def= malabsorption, lack of sunlight, diet
- CKD
- drug induced eg. anticonvulsants
- liver disease eg. cirrhosis
- coeliac
- inherited
inherited cause of osteomalacia?
hypophosphatemic rickets (aka vit D-resistant rickets)
Features of osteomalacia?
- bone pain
- bone/muscle tenderness
- fractures: esp femoral neck
- proximal myopathy= waddling gait
What fracture is common in osteomalacia?
femoral neck
Ix for osteomalacia?
- bloods= low vit D; low Ca and phosphate (30%) and raised ALP
- x-ray= translucent bands (Looser’s zones or pseudofractures)
Tx for osteomalacia?
- vit D supplementation= loading dose initially needed
- Ca supplementation if dietary inadequate
Osteomyeleitis?
infection of the bone
Osteomyelitis may be classified into what?
Haematogenous osteomyelitis and non-haematogenous osteomyelitis
Haematogenous osteomyelitis?
results from bacteraemia
is usually monomicrobial
most common form in children
vertebral osteomyelitis is the most common form of haematogenous osteomyelitis in adults
Most common form of osteomyelitis in children?
Haematogenous osteomyelitis
Haematogenous osteomyelitis RFs?
sickle cell anaemia, intravenous drug user, immunosuppression due to either medication or HIV, infective endocarditis
Non-haematogenous osteomyelitis?
results from the contiguous spread of infection from adjacent soft tissues to the bone or from direct
injury/trauma to bone
is often polymicrobial
most common form in adults
Most common form osteomyelitis in adults?
Non-haematogenous osteomyelitis
Non-haematogenous osteomyelitis RFs?
diabetic foot ulcers/pressure sores, diabetes mellitus, peripheral arterial disease
Most common cause of osteomyelitis (microbio)?
staph.aureus
(except if pt has sickle cell anaemia)
Most common cause of osteomyelitis in sickle cell anaemia pts?
Salmonella species
Ix for osteomyelitis?
MRI
Mx for osteomyelitis?
flucloxacillin for 6 weeks
clindamycin if penicillin-allergic
Mneumonic for ankylosing spondylitis?
S.ausage digitis
P.soriasis
I.nflam back pain
N.SAID responsive
E.nethesis (heel pain)
A.rthritis
C.rohns/UC
H.LA-B27
E.yes (uveitis)
Osteoporosis?
disease characterised by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue, causing increase in bone fragility and susceptibility to fracture
Does pt know they have osteoporosis?
it is asymptomatic so remains undiagnosed normally until a fragility fracture occurs
Osteoporotic fracture occurs as a consequence of…
increased bone fragility
Characteristic fractures occur where in pt with osteoporosis?
wrist, spine, hip
Fragility fracture?
fracture following a fall from standing height or less
Vertebral fractures in pt with osteoporosis?
may occur spontaneously or as a result of routine activities
RFs for osteoporosis?
Female sex.
Increasing age.
Menopause.
Oral corticosteroids.
Smoking.
Alcohol.
Previous fragility fracture.
Rheumatological conditions, eg. RA and other inflammatory arthropathies.
Parental history of hip fracture.
BMI less than 18.5 kg/m2.
What should be done in pt with fragility fracture prior to calculating fracture risk (osteoporosis)?
Ix to check for non-osteoporotic causes eg. metastatic bone ca and undiagnosed secondary causes eg. hyperthyroidism
Pt presents with fragility fracture, what Ix do you do?
1) rule out non-osteop causes and undiagnosed 2 causes eg. hyperthroidism
2) 10yr fragility fracture risk score PRIOR to arranging DXA scan to measure BMD or starting bisphosphonate except in certain pts (if ‘high risk eg. due to age or RFs then just straight to DXA)
What pts with suspected osteoporosis do you not bother calculating 10-yr fragility fracture risk score for (‘high risk’)? In these pts you just do DXA scan straight away without calculating risk.
> 50yrs with Hx of fragility fracture= offer DXA scan
<40yrs with major RF for fragility fracture= DXA scan then refer to specialist in Tx of osteop depending on BMD T-score
What is the BMD T-score?
the number of standard deviations below the mean BMD of young adults at their peak bone mass.
How to calculate 10 yr fragility fracture risk in pt with suspected osteoporosis? What do you do with the results?
- QFracture or FRAX
High risk= DXA scan to confirm osteop
Intermediate risk= close to threshold and have RFs (eg. taking high dose oral corticosteroids)= DXA scan
Low risk= lifestyle advice and NO scan
What RF for osteoporosis may not be included in FRAX?
pt taking high dose oral corticosteroids
Who should be offered bisphosphonates in suspected osteoporosis?
with BMD T-score of -2.5 or lower
Mx of osteoporosis?
1) 10yr fragility fracture risk score unless ‘high risk’
2) DXA scan for BMD if high risk score/intermediate
3) BMD T-score -2.5 or lower= bisphosphonates
- consider HRT in younger postmen women to reduce risk of fracture
4) manage RFs= smoking, alcohol, Ca & vit D def; falls risk
Why is follow up needed following starting Tx for osteoporosis?
- adverse effects of bone-sparing Tx
- adherence
- need for continuing bisphosphonate after 5yrs
Consider assessing fragility fracture risk in who?
- all women 65yrs+ and all men 75yrs+
- < them ages if RF= previous frag fracture; Hx of falls; current/freq use of oral corticosteroids; FHx hip fracture; BMI <18.5; smoking; alcohol >14units; have secondary causes for osteoporosis
- Do not assess if <50yrs or <40yrs unless major RF