Misdiagnoses: a timely reminder.

Marshall, W R; Leggett, J E · Ann Plast Surg · 1992

case_report · Level V

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Abstract

This case report of an occult infection masquerading as palindromic arthritis was misdiagnosed for almost 2 years. The episodic bouts of erysipelas were not obvious, and it was even suggested that the silicone implanted 7 years previously could possibly be inciting an autoimmune disease. Approximately 2 years after the onset of the recurrent episodes of fever, myalgias, and arthralgias, coagulase-negative staphylococci were found residing in the valve stems of bilumen breast implants, which were removed. The symptom complex disappeared and has not recurred.

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