THERAPY WITH INTRAARTICULAR METHYLPREDNIS OLONE IN THE HEMOPHILIC CHRONIC SYNOVITIS OF THE KNEE

This prospective study evaluates the effectiveness of intraarticular m ethylprednisolone (IAMP) (80 mg) in 10 knees of 10 hemophilic patients with chronic synovitis. This treatment was prescribed because the lak e of sensitivity to substitutive therapy with the deficitary coagulati on factor during 2 months. The patients average age was 25 years (rang e, 18 to 30) and the minimum follow up was 1 year. The patients were r adiographically and ultrasonographically (US) evaluated before startin g any kind of treatment and periodically until finishing the follow up . The results one year after the injection were excellent in 4 cases, good in 3 cases, fair in 2 cases and poor in 1 case. Correlation betwe en results and previous radiographic status of the knee has not been f ound. A close correlation between clinical features and US examination findings was demonstrated. This study has demonstrated that IAMP is a n useful procedure for medically treating the chronic hemophilic synov itis of the knee, even with radiographic signs of arthropathy. LAMP mu st be beared in mind before applying other methods more aggressive. US is very useful for diagnosing and following up the effects of IAMP on this condition.