ABSTRACT
We report a case of serous gonarthritis with nonproductive cough successfully treated with Eppikajutsuto. A 37-year-old Japanese man developed a right genicular arthrocele with nonproductive cough, in October X. Over 100 ml of serous synovial fluid was drained via an arthrocentesis puncture procedure. Although he was treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents by an orthopedist, under a diagnosis of serous gonarthritis, his symptoms did not improve. Laboratory findings suggested inflammatory conditions (serum CRP 3.4 mg/dl, ESR 76 mm/h). At the time of his first visit in January X+1, orthopedic examinations revealed that rheumatoid arthritis was unlikely, based on negative physical and laboratory findings. A contrast MRI knee joint scan did not demonstrate any tumor-like mass of synovium which would indicate pigmented villonodular synovitis. And orthopedists found it difficult to specify the cause of his serous gonarthritis. After a common cold in December X, cough stimulated by cold exposure was superimposed on serous gonarthritis.We utilized Eppikajutsuto under the interpretation that both his genicular arthrocele and nonproductive cough were due to a “sui” disturbance. This Eppikajutsuto therapy reduced his genicular arthrocele and nonproductive cough in1month. His symptoms and inflammatory reactions were completely improved in 3 months, regardless of gradual withdrawal of his medication.