Tendon Rupture in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

MARTIN et al¹described bilateral rupture of the ligamenta patellae in a case of disseminated lupus erythematosus, as far as we know, the first such case to be reported. Because bilateral simultaneous rupture of the quadriceps tendons is a rare occurrence, another instance of this complication in disseminated lupus is of interest.

Report of a Case

On April 15, 1959, a 46-year-old white salesman was walking from his house to his car when his knees gave way and he fell to the ground and was unable to get up or straighten his legs. There was no history of unusual exertion or trauma. On examination, wasting of the quadriceps, especially on the right, was noted with a defect in the right quadriceps tendon just above the patella on tensing the quadriceps. The left patella was abnormally high with infrapatellar swelling and tenderness. He could not extend either knee. The patient