Ochronotic Arthropathy Presenting as Severe Degenerative Arthritis in a Patient Undergoing Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Case Report

Abstract

Ochronotic arthropathy is an uncommon disorder observed in individuals with alkaptonuria, characterized by the buildup of Ochronotic pigment. This case report provides the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and successful surgical treatment of a 64-year-old Asian in (Baqiyatollah Hospital, Tehran, Iran) female patient with ochronotic arthropathy, an uncommon disease characterized by the accumulation of dark pigments in the tissues of the joints. The patient initially exhibited progressive pain and limited mobility in the left hip, ultimately diagnosed as severe degenerative arthritis. Despite conservative management, such as analgesic medication and physical therapy, the symptoms continued to linger. The surgical procedure involved uncemented total hip arthroplasty (THA) using the anterolateral approach. During the 6-month check-up, the patient showed a satisfactory range of motion and no report of pain or discomfort. Having a thorough knowledge of ochronosis and its various forms is crucial for promptly diagnosing and efficiently managing the condition. Our presented case demonstrated the effectiveness of total hip arthroplasty (THA) in treating ochronotic arthropathy.