Neglected reactive arthritis complicated by bilateral hip and temporomandibular joints ankylosis after a suspected tetanus infection: a case report

Abstract Background Reactive arthritis had been reported to occur after various vaccinations, including the tetanus toxoid vaccine; here, we report a case of ankylosing arthropathy suggested be complication missed neglected reactive infection. Case presentation A healthy 20-year-old woman presented with subtrochanteric right femoral fracture; imaging studies showed bilateral ankylosed hip, kyphoscoliosis, fused temporomandibular joints, and normal sacroiliac joints bilaterally. Laboratory investigations for rheumatic or autoimmune disease were all within ranges. Detailed history revealed admission patient an ICU unit (1 year before trauma) month as she was diagnosed having infection, which unable walk feed herself. At final follow-up, started walking moderate limb series surgeries fracture fixation, joint excision arthroplasty, total hip arthroplasty. Conclusion Unusual complications infection can in form ankylosis, could prolonged immobilization possibly due improper management arthritis.