[18F] With knee pain, swelling, and mild fever

Patient Description

An 18-year-old female has been experiencing throbbing pain behind her knee since yesterday, rated as 7 out of 10 in intensity. The pain worsens with walking and bending the knee. There is associated swelling, bruising, and red spots extending up the leg, which started today. The swelling behind the knee is soft. The patient also reports stiffness and difficulty bending the knee, along with a mild fever of 99°F for about a day. There are no changes in the color or temperature of the leg, no warmth around the knee, and no recent infections or injuries elsewhere in the body. The patient has no history of blood clots, recent long travel, or prolonged immobility. There is a family history of blood clots and stroke in the grandfather and blood clots in the mother. The patient has a history of chronic UTIs since around the age of 12. No known drug allergies and not currently on any medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you’ve provided, there are a few serious conditions that could be causing your symptoms:

  1. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Given the sudden onset of pain, swelling, and bruising with red spots, DVT is a serious condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. This is especially concerning given your family history of blood clots. DVT can lead to life-threatening complications if the clot travels to the lungs (pulmonary embolism).

  2. Baker's Cyst Rupture: This is a fluid-filled cyst that can develop behind the knee. If it ruptures, it can cause pain, swelling, and bruising down the leg. However, this is less likely given the severity of your symptoms and the presence of a fever.

  3. Infection (Septic Arthritis or Cellulitis): The combination of fever, swelling, and pain could indicate an infection in the knee joint or surrounding tissues. This requires prompt medical attention to prevent the spread of infection.

What you can do

  1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Given the potential seriousness of your symptoms, you should seek medical care immediately. Go to the nearest emergency room or urgent care center. If you are unable to get there yourself, call 911 or have someone drive you.

  2. Monitor Symptoms: While waiting for medical care, keep an eye on your symptoms. If you experience shortness of breath, chest pain, or the symptoms worsen, call 911 immediately.

  3. Avoid Straining the Knee: Try to keep weight off your affected leg and avoid bending your knee to prevent further pain and potential complications.

  4. Stay Hydrated and Rest: While these steps won't treat the underlying issue, staying hydrated and resting can help manage your overall well-being until you receive medical care.

Remember, I am not a doctor, and it is crucial to get a formal diagnosis and treatment from a healthcare professional. Your symptoms could indicate a serious condition that requires prompt medical intervention.

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4 mo ago

People Also Ask

What are the common symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)?

Common symptoms of DVT include swelling in one leg, pain or tenderness in the leg (often starting in the calf), a feeling of warmth in the affected leg, and red or discolored skin on the leg. If you suspect DVT, seek medical attention immediately.

How can a Baker's cyst rupture be identified and treated?

A Baker's cyst rupture can cause sudden pain and swelling behind the knee and down the leg, similar to a DVT. Treatment often involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), but medical evaluation is necessary to rule out other conditions.

What are the signs of an infection like septic arthritis or cellulitis in the knee?

Signs of an infection like septic arthritis or cellulitis include joint pain, swelling, redness, warmth around the affected area, and fever. These conditions require prompt medical treatment to prevent complications.

How does family history affect the risk of developing blood clots?

Family history can significantly increase the risk of developing blood clots. If close relatives have had blood clots or related conditions, it may indicate a genetic predisposition, making it important to discuss this history with a healthcare provider.

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