Multi-joint steroid-induced avascular necrosis in a malignant brain tumor patient

Abstract

Avascular necrosis (AVN) is a rare but serious adverse event associated with the use of corticosteroids for long durations or at high doses. This case report describes a 47-year-old female patient with low-grade astrocytoma who was initiated on low-dose dexamethasone for symptom management. The patient developed joint pain 1 year after steroid exposure, then was found to have AVN of the hip followed by multiple other joints. This case report highlights the extent to which AVN can occur in patients with brain tumors following a short course of low-dose corticosteroids. Careful evaluation of and monitoring for the development of AVN should occur frequently in patients with brain tumors given the frequent use of corticosteroids for symptom management in this population.