Tuberculosis of the patella

Background: A rare case of patella tuberculosis in a 33-year-old man is presented. In the last two decades, tuberculosis has made a vigorous comeback, due mainly to large-scale migration of populations and the increasing number of immunosuppressed patients. Extrapulmonary tuberculosis accounts for less than 3% of cases, and sites like the patella are very rare. Fewer than 10 cases were found in the international literature. Methods: A 33-year-old man presented in our department with a 9-month history of pain and swelling of the left knee. Tuberculosis of the patella was diagnosed after biological and radiological investigations. Results: Imaging studies, especially MRI, are of great interest for the diagnosis and to assess the extent of tuberculosis. Histology of the curettage specimen is also required to reach a definitive diagnosis and develop an adapted management strategy (chemotherapy and rehabilitation). Conclusion: Diagnosis and treatment should be urgent, including surgical debridement and well-conducted antitubercular therapy to yield a satisfactory functional outcome.