Bilateral Simultaneous Patellar Tendon Rupture in an Adolescent Athlete: A Case Report and Literature Review Highlighting the Role of Vitamin D Deficiency
Abstract
Simultaneous bilateral patellar tendon rupture is an exceptionally rare injury in the paediatric population. While bilateral patellar tendon rupture in adults is frequently associated with systemic disease or corticosteroid exposure, the few reported paediatric cases have been linked to localised tendinopathy, connective tissue disorders, or repetitive mechanical stress. This report presents a case of simultaneous bilateral patellar tendon rupture in a 15-year-old male following a rugby-related injury. Biochemical investigation revealed severe vitamin D deficiency with secondary hyperparathyroidism in the absence of systemic illness, corticosteroid use, or renal dysfunction. The patient underwent prompt bilateral surgical repair followed by structured rehabilitation and vitamin D supplementation without complications. This case represents an unusual presentation of bilateral patellar tendon rupture in an otherwise healthy adolescent and highlights the coexistence of severe vitamin D deficiency as a potentially relevant metabolic finding. Although causality cannot be inferred from a single case, recognition of potential underlying metabolic abnormalities may aid diagnostic evaluation and inform management in similar rare presentations.
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Evidence Hub reads this as a case report, done in people. Its evidence level is 5 of 5 (Very low · case / narrative / animal / in vitro / in silico). Case reports, narrative reviews, and animal, cell or computer-model studies give the weakest evidence for human health.
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