[Intra-articular methylprednisolone therapy in chronic hemophilic synovitis of the knee].

This prospective study evaluates the effectiveness of intraarticular methylprednisolone (IAMP) (80 mg) in 10 knees of 10 hemophilic patients with chronic synovitis. This treatment was prescribed because the lack of sensitivity to substitutive therapy with the deficient coagulation factor during 2 months. The patients average age was 25 years (range, 18 to 30) and the minimum follow up was 1 year. The patients were radiographically and ultrasonographically (US) evaluated before starting any kind of treatment and periodically until finishing the follow up. The results one year after the injection were excellent in 4 cases, good in 3 cases, fair in 2 cases and poor in 1 case. Correlation between results and previous radiographic status of the knee has not been found. A close correlation between clinical features and US examination findings was demonstrated. This study has demonstrated that IAMP is an useful procedure for medically treating the chronic hemophilic synovitis of the knee, even with radiographic signs of arthropathy. IAMP must be born in mind before applying other methods more aggressive. US is very useful for diagnosing and following up the effects of IAMP on this condition.