Advanced osteoarthritis of the hip as reason for extensive asymmetric leg edema: a rare case report and review of the literature

Abstract

An enlarged iliopectineal bursa (IB) can cause pressure on iliofemoral veins. Clinical presentation can manifest as asymmetrical lower extremity edema. This case report demonstrates extensive asymmetrical leg edema caused by femoral vein compression based on iliopectineal bursitis (IB-itis) associated with advanced osteoarthritis (OA) of the left hip joint with an outline of relevant current literature.

A female patient presented with left hip pain and edema in the leg. X-ray showed severe OA of the left hip. Computed Tomography (CT) concluded a cystic abnormality at the left iliopsoas muscle associated with the joint consistent with IB-itis, associated with a degenerative left hip joint. Hybrid total hip replacement was performed. At three-month follow-up her left leg showed no longer signs of extensive edema and she walked without the use of walking aids. IB-itis is mostly associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). There are no reports which only describe OA as cause of IB-itis.

Extensive asymmetrical leg edema can be caused by venous compression of the femoral vein by an IB-itis. If the latter is the consequence of advanced hip OA, a total hip replacement can yield excellent clinical outcomes both functionally and with regard to the edema.