Patellar Tendon Rupture as a Manifestation of Lyme Disease

Abstract not available. Introduction provided instead.

Patellar tendon ruptures can result from overloading eccentric contraction injuries (as occur in athletic patients), chronic tendon weakening from repetitive microtrauma,¹ and chronic inflammation leading to degeneration and subsequent tear.² Ruptures that result from acute, traumatic events generally occur at the attachment near the inferior pole of the patella,³ whereas midsubstance disruptions are more common with inflammation from systemic conditions.^4-6 Here we present what we believe is the first reported case of a patellar tendon rupture as an extra-articular manifestation of the late phase of Lyme disease around the knee. We informed our patient that data concerning her case would be submitted for publication, and she gave us written permission to publish this report in print and electronically.