Bilateral spontaneous quadriceps tendon ruptures. A case report and review of the literature.

Abstract

Bilateral spontaneous quadriceps ruptures are rare and have been reported most often in association with chronic disease states. A case report and review of the literature are presented. Two-thirds of reported cases occur in healthy individuals, although chronic disease states enhance susceptibility to this injury in a significantly younger patient population. Routine laboratory screening for rheumatologic, endocrine, and renal disease is therefore advocated for all presenting patients. Diagnosis is clinical; review of the literature documents the efficacy of early repair followed by appropriate immobilization and aggressive physical therapy.