An unusual cause of limp

Abstract

A 38-year-old male re-presented to the ED five days after being discharged with a diagnosis of soft tissue injury to the left knee. Re-attendance was prompted by increased inability to weightbear and loss of joint function. The patient limped into the department and was asked to lie supine for examination. Even a cursory visual examination revealed marked infra-patellar swelling with a loss of contour and definition to this aspect of the joint. Pain was not a significant part of the presentation being scored at 2/10 at worst. The patient was an otherwise active adult who had become frustrated by his inability to indulge in any sort of sporting activity since discharge. After visiting the gym that morning he had been advised by one of the staff to re-attend as there was a possibility that he may have a more significant injury than previously diagnosed.