# Periprosthetic joint infection of the knee complicated by primary localized cutaneous amyloidosis: a case report

## TL;DR

A patient with a skin condition called PLCA developed a serious knee infection after surgery, suggesting a possible link between the two.

## Contribution

This case report highlights a potential association between PLCA and periprosthetic joint infection after knee arthroplasty.

## Key findings

- A PLCA patient developed acute periprosthetic joint infection after total knee arthroplasty.
- Two-stage revision surgery was required to manage the recurring infection.
- Prophylactic antibiotics and tacrolimus may help manage infection risk in PLCA patients undergoing arthroplasty.

## Abstract

Primary localized cutaneous amyloidosis (PLCA) is characterized by amyloid protein deposition in the skin, leading to pigmentation, papules, and itching. The etiology of PLCA remains unclear. Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) post-total knee arthroplasty (TKA) poses challenges in management.

A PLCA patient underwent TKA and developed acute PJI, necessitating multiple surgical interventions. Recurrence of infection symptoms prompted a two-stage revision surgery approach.

Skin lesions in PLCA patients may potentially contribute to the risk PJI following arthroplasty. Strategies such as using tacrolimus for itching management, along with prophylactic antibiotics during PLCA flare-ups, could potentially aid in preventing and managing PJI in this patient population. Further research is needed to elucidate the relationship between PLCA and PJI post-arthroplasty.