Knee - Anterior View

Case KN-ANT-MO-A1016

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Diagnosis

This case represents an uncommon presentation of acquired hemophilia A in an elderly female patient, with moderate hemophilic arthropathy developing in the context of pre-existing age-related joint changes. The score reflects moderate structural damage accumulated over relatively short disease duration (30 months), though the ultrasound findings show complex overlay of hemophilic changes upon baseline osteoarthritic alterations. The management is complicated by the patient's age, comorbidities (hypertension, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis), and the challenges of immunosuppressive therapy in the elderly population. Current treatment includes prednisolone 20mg daily with gradual taper, rituximab infusions every 6 months for inhibitor eradication (current titer reduced to 4 BU), and recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa) for breakthrough bleeding episodes. The prognosis for complete inhibitor eradication is approximately 50-60% in acquired hemophilia, though elderly patients may have lower rates of immune tolerance. Joint preservation is a priority given limited surgical options at this age. Physical therapy has been adapted for elderly patient with focus on maintaining functional independence rather than athletic goals: seated strengthening exercises, assisted range of motion, and gait training with walker. Pain management includes scheduled acetaminophen 1000mg three times daily (avoiding NSAIDs due to bleeding risk), topical capsaicin cream, and occasional low-dose tramadol for severe pain episodes. Fall prevention strategies are critical given bleeding risk, including home safety assessment, proper lighting, removal of tripping hazards, and consideration of hip protectors. The patient's family has been educated about signs of acute hemorrhage requiring emergency evaluation. Quality of life considerations are paramount, with multidisciplinary team including hematology, geriatrics, physical therapy, and social work coordinating care. Follow-up ultrasound is planned in 6 months to assess progression, with particular attention to development of additional joint involvement. The case highlights the importance of maintaining high clinical suspicion for acquired hemophilia in elderly patients presenting with spontaneous bleeding, and the challenges of managing hemophilic arthropathy in this unique patient population where treatment goals must be balanced against age-related limitations and comorbidities.