STRESS-FRACTURES IN RHEUMATOID-ARTHRITIS

In patients with rheumatoid arthritis several risk factors for stress fractures are known, such as osteoporosis, ankylosis and joint deforma tions, as well as stress fractures following reconstructive operations . The exact diagnosis of a rheumatoid stress fracture depends on the a ccuracy of examination and the case history. Early diagnosis and treat ment are very important: a neglected stress fracture, expecially of th e hip joint, may progress to a complete fracture requiring surgical tr eatment. In our case, this occurred in one of our female patients. Str ess fractures can simulate the symptoms of joint inflammation. The pre sented female patient had in her lower extremities sudden attacks of p ain which were increased by moving. In her history there were no point ers to any injury. Early consideration of the reasons leading to stres s fractures and their treatment will reduce the risk of new fractures.