Multifocal osteonecrosis after short-term high-dose corticosteroid therapy. A case report

Clin Orthop Relat Res. 1992 Jun:(279):176-9.

Abstract

Osteonecrosis is a common sequela of long-term steroid therapy. This paper presents the only case of multifocal osteonecrosis to occur after a short-term course of methylprednisolone for treatment of septic shock. Two years after receiving a two-week course of corticosteroid treatment, the patient developed pain in his right and left shoulders and left hip. Roentgenograms and magnetic resonance imaging revealed changes consistent with osteonecrosis of both humeral heads and the femoral head. The patient failed to respond to conservative treatment and eventually was treated with bipolar hip replacement.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Femur Head Necrosis / chemically induced*
  • Femur Head Necrosis / pathology
  • Femur Head Necrosis / surgery
  • Humans
  • Humerus* / diagnostic imaging
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Methylprednisolone / administration & dosage
  • Methylprednisolone / adverse effects*
  • Osteonecrosis / chemically induced*
  • Osteotomy
  • Prednisone / administration & dosage
  • Prednisone / adverse effects*
  • Radiography

Substances

  • Prednisone
  • Methylprednisolone