Ochronotic spondylarthropathy: two case reports of progressive destructive changes in the hip

Abstract

We report two cases of ochronotic spondylarthropathy who presented with spinal involvement followed by progressive destructive changes in the hip joint, which led to total hip replacement with a satisfactory outcome. Pathological examination revealed severe deterioration of the affected hip with unique cartilage degeneration associated with active inflammation in the synovium and bone marrow. These features were also evaluated by magnetic resonance imaging in one case which presented with rapidly destructive changes in the hip. Spinal involvement may contribute to progressive destructive hip arthropathy in ochronosis.

Key words::

• Alkaptonuria (AKU)
• Ochronosis
• Rapidly destructive hip joint
• Spondylarthropathy