Simultaneous Bilateral Quadriceps Tendon Rupture Following a Low - Energy Trauma in a Male Body Builder with the History of Anabolic - Androgenic Steroids Consumption

Consumption of anabolic - androgenic steroids (AAS) is described as a major factor in tendon weakening process. The reports of bilateral quadriceps tendon rupture (QTR) following the AAS consumption are very rare. The current study described a case of simultaneous bilateral QTR following a low - energy trauma in a body builder with the history of ASS consumption.
A 32 - year - old male body builder was referred to under study center with a history of falling down from the stairs nearly 2 weeks earlier. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed QTR in both knees from superior pole of patella. He denied any major trauma to explain the recent problem. Thus, the QTR was attributed to a low - energy trauma. While ruling out the tendon weakening conditions promptly, the history of oral and intramuscular consumption of AAS was noted. The patient was operated to repair QTR. At the last follow-up session, he was able to actively straighten his legs. The consumption of AAS was discontinued afterward.
Consumption of AAS by athletes has considerably increased during the last few decades. An appropriate warning of orthopedic surgeons regarding AAS side effects is necessary in order to recognize the predisposing factor of tendon rupture in similar circumstances and address the case properly.