Linfedema asociado a artropatía neuropática de Charcot

Abstract

Charcot spinal arthropathy is a late complication of spinal cord injury, and other conditions consisting of a joint degeneration due to impairment of the local proprioceptive sensitivity. This defect in the protective mechanisms of the joint facilitates microtrauma leading to cartilage injury, joint luxation, and destruction of bones and ligaments. Due to the lack of specific-presenting features, the diagnosis is often made late in the course of the disease, once the invalidating consequences have already been developed. We describe the case of a 57-year-old woman diagnosed with Charcot arthropathy following the detection of lymphedema in both lower limbs, this being a consequence of the advanced local spread of the joint degeneration. Therefore, surgery, the treatment of choice for this condition, was ruled out because of the high risk of procedure-related complications. This case reinforces the importance of an early diagnosis of Charcot arthropathy in order to implement corrective measures before irreversible sequels are established.