Knee avascular necrosis in HIV patient.

Secondary avascular necrosis of the knee is a common finding among HIV patients on anti retroviral therapy. Incidence in this group is higher than in the general population. There is no clear understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease. It is thought to be related to the virus itself and/or anti retroviral medications. Early recognition and management of knee pain reduces the need of extensive surgery such as total knee arthroplasty giving way to less invasive procedures like core decompression thus, reducing the risk of more serious complications.