Introduction: Ochronotic arthropathy is a rapidly progressive sequelae of alkaptonuria. This is a rare autosomal recessive condition caused by a mutation in the homogentisate 1,2 dioxygenase (HGD) gene leading to HGD enzyme deficiency. Here, we report a case of neck femur fracture in a patient with ochronotic arthropathy managed by primary hip arthroplasty.
Case report: A 62-year-old gentleman presented with complaints of pain in his left groin area and difficulty in weight bearing on his left lower limb for 3 weeks. The pain was sudden in onset and started while he was on his morning walk. He did not have any problems with his left hip before this episode and he did not give a history of any significant trauma. History, radiological, and intraoperative findings revealed ochronotic hip arthropathy.
Conclusion: Ochronotic arthropathy is relatively rare and is seen in isolated communities. The treatment options are similar to primary osteoarthritis and the outcome is comparable to arthroplasty done for osteoarthritis.
Keywords: Ochronotic arthropathy; alkaptonuria; blackening of urine; ochronosis.
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