Orthopedic & Muscular System: Current Research
Open Access

Abstract

A Rare Case of Bilateral Patellar Tendon Rupture Associated with Anabolic Androgenic Steroids Use

Pedro MR Campos, Bárbara P Rosa, André S Barros, Samir Karmali, João F Almeida and Nuno P Coutinho

Bilateral rupture of the patellar tendon is a very rare injury in healthy individuals. Some pathologic conditions or repeated local steroid injections can predispose to the occurrence of this lesion. The effect of oral medication on the tendon remains controversial.

Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) have a powerful effect on the musculoskeletal system, despite the risk of some adverse consequences. The use of these drugs has been associated with tendon rupture, however, only few cases of tendon injury associated with AAS have been reported, and specific pathophysiological mechanisms are not well known.

We present a case of a healthy middle-aged male, recreational bodybuilder, who presented to our institution with the diagnosis of bilateral patellar tendon rupture. His single risk factor to this uncommon injury was the use of AAS. The aim of this case report is to raise awareness for the association between the use of AAS and tendon rupture.