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Case Reports
. 2024 Oct 19;16(10):e71897.
doi: 10.7759/cureus.71897. eCollection 2024 Oct.

Challenges in Diagnosing SAPHO Syndrome: A Multidisciplinary Perspective

Maryam Zahid  1 , Varshini Vishwanatham  2 , Iqra Nasir  3
Affiliations
Case Reports

Challenges in Diagnosing SAPHO Syndrome: A Multidisciplinary Perspective

Maryam Zahid et al. Cureus. .

Abstract

SAPHO syndrome (synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis, osteitis syndrome) is a systemic inflammatory disease characterized by a combination of both osteoarticular and dermatological manifestations. We encountered an interesting case of a 54-year-old female patient who presented with symptoms of recurrent chest infections. Extensive investigations, including laboratory tests and imaging, were conducted with an initial suspicion of malignancy, but the patient was ultimately diagnosed with SAPHO. Treatment was initiated with a corticosteroid and an immunosuppressant, resulting in mild symptom improvement. This case emphasizes the importance of considering SAPHO syndrome in patients with unexplained musculoskeletal and dermatological symptoms, as early diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact patient outcomes.

Keywords: acne; arthritis; arthropathy; case report; hyperostosis; osteitis; pustulosis; sapho syndrome; synovitis.

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Conflict of interest statement

Human subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve human participants or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1. Axial CT scan in the bone window shows multiple sclerotic lesions in the vertebrae (cervical and thoracic) and in the manubrium
Figure 2
Figure 2. Sagittal T2W MRI image shows zones of vertebral bone marrow abnormality (sclerosis) extending from C5-C7 and T6-T10
Figure 3
Figure 3. Sagittal T2W image shows some healing in the depression of the superior endplate of T8
Figure 4
Figure 4. Follow-up axial CT Scan bone window shows subtle improvement in the appearance of the sclerosis within the sternum, lower cervical, and mid-thoracic spine.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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