Ankle arthropathy of hemochromatosis: A case series and review of the literature

Background. Genetic hemochromatosis is a relatively common disease that may present as an arthropathy. In particular, arthropathy of the ankle is invariably bilateral and occurs in young men. However, the orthopaedic management of this condition has been poorly documented. Methods: Four patients with hemochromatic ankle arthropathy were treated with unilateral mobile bearing total ankle arthroplasty. Results: All four patients had good relief of symptoms after arthroplasty. Conclusions: Hemochromatosis should be considered when symmetrical ankle arthropathy occurs in a young man. Early diagnosis is necessary to prevent extra-articular progression of the disease and inappropriate management.