ACHILLES TENDINITIS AS A RARE COMPLICATION OF CIPROFLOXACIN TREATMENT – CASE REPORT AND CURRENT RECOMMENDATIONS
Abstract
Fluoroquinolones are broad-spectrum antibiotics widely prescribed for respiratory, urinary, gastrointestinal, and systemic infections. Despite their efficacy, these agents have been increasingly linked to tendinopathy and tendon rupture, most frequently affecting the Achilles tendon. The underlying mechanisms are thought to involve impaired collagen synthesis, extracellular matrix degradation, and tenocyte apoptosis. We present the case of a 51-year-old female lung transplant recipient who developed acute bilateral Achilles tendinitis after three days of intravenous ciprofloxacin therapy. Prompt discontinuation of the antibiotic, coupled with conservative management using rest and topical aluminum acetate gel, led to complete symptom resolution within one week. This case illustrates the potential for rapid onset of fluoroquinolone-induced tendinopathy, particularly in high-risk populations, and underscores the importance of early recognition and withdrawal of the offending drug. Clinicians should remain vigilant when prescribing fluoroquinolones, reserving their use for situations where safer alternatives are unavailable.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Alicja Zań, Diana Wisz, Filip Maciej Huzarski, Weronika Worosz, Katarzyna Maria Turek, Katarzyna Adrianna Tryniecka
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