Toxic epidemic syndrome: musculoskeletal manifestations.

Abstract

The musculoskeletal manifestations of a new systemic disease that developed after toxic oil consumption are described. Clinically, it was characterized by the presence of arthralgias, sometimes arthritis, extensive muscle atrophy, severe neuropathy and a scleroderma-like skin involvement. Radiologically, different types of osteopenia could be seen in the absence of joint space narrowing or erosions. Neither hypertrophy, nor hyperplasia of synoviocytes were seen on microscopic examination. A non-necrotizing vasculitis and increase in fibrous tissue were observed at different levels.