SAPHO syndrome presenting as widespread bony metastatic disease of unknown origin

Rheumatol Int. 2012 Feb;32(2):505-7. doi: 10.1007/s00296-010-1742-5. Epub 2011 Jan 20.

Abstract

SAPHO (synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis and osteitis) syndrome represents an inflammatory spectrum ranging from an osteitis through to a spondyloarthropathy which may or may not be associated with dermatological manifestations. We present the case of a 52-year-old female who presented with non-specific back pain. Radiological imaging showed mixed lytic and sclerotic lesions of her lumbar spine and pelvis consistent with bony metastatic disease. She underwent CT-guided biopsy that confirmed histological findings in keeping with non-bacterial osteitis/chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis. This case report and review of the literature highlights the importance of the SAPHO syndrome and its treatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acquired Hyperostosis Syndrome / complications
  • Acquired Hyperostosis Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Bone Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Bone Neoplasms / secondary
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Discitis / diagnosis*
  • Discitis / etiology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Osteomyelitis / diagnosis*
  • Osteomyelitis / etiology

Supplementary concepts

  • Chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis