• Sandeep Johar and Kenneth Veenema.
• Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA.
• J Emerg Med. 2012 Jul 1;43(1):e35-8.

BackgroundThere have been few case reports of patellar tendon rupture in patients with underlying systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).ObjectivesWe present a unique case to discuss the importance of recognizing patellar tendon rupture in the emergency department (ED).Case ReportAn 18-year-old man with SLE presented to the ED with pain, swelling, and inability to extend his left knee after a fall. Physical examination demonstrated a palpable defect over the patellar tendon, and plain radiographs showed patella alta. Patellar tendon rupture was diagnosed, and the patient underwent open surgical repair. Conclusion: In low-energy patellar tendon rupture, the effects of the pathophysiology and the treatment for SLE, which includes systemic corticosteroids, are currently unclear. However, it is important to establish prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment in the ED to maximize recovery and minimize long-term disability.Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

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