Subchondral haematoma. The missing link in understanding haemophilic arthropathy?

ABSTRACT

Haemophilic arthropathy is a complex multifactorial disorder that poses significant challenges to both the treating haematologist and arthroplasty surgeon. Its pathogenesis is incompletely understood. Recent literature has concentrated on the toxic effects of iron and the characteristic inflammatory synovitis. Discussion of the role of subchondral bleeding in joint damage has been neglected. A case of haemophilic arthropathy with extensive evidence of subchondral bleeding and related osteochondral destruction is presented. RESULT: The relevance of this mechanical pathway in the future management of haemophilic arthropathy is discussed with reference to recent literature. CONCLUSION: Clinicians should consider its importance when deciding whether to manage patients expectantly or with prophylactic factor replacement.