Congenital Absence of Patella Presenting as Chronic Knee Pain in Adulthood: A Rare Delayed Presentation in a 30-Year-Old Male
Abstract: Background: Congenital absence (aplasia) of the patella is an extremely rare developmental anomaly usually diagnosed during childhood. Delayed presentation in adulthood is exceptionally uncommon. Case Presentation: A 30-year-old male presented with chronic right knee pain and inability to perform daily activities for six months. Clinical examination revealed valgus deformity with prominent femoral condyles. Musculoskeletal ultrasound demonstrated direct visualization of the distal femur and proximal tibia with absence of the patella. Plain radiographs confirmed complete absence of the patella. The patient had no history of trauma, surgery, or syndromic manifestations. Conclusion: This case highlights a rare delayed adult presentation of congenital absent patella and emphasizes the role of ultrasound as an initial diagnostic modality before radiographic confirmation.
Keywords: congenital absent patella, adult knee pain, patellar aplasia, musculoskeletal ultrasound, rare case report
How to Cite?: Dr. Pallavi Dasyam, Dr Potturi Siva Srinivas Kiran, "Congenital Absence of Patella Presenting as Chronic Knee Pain in Adulthood: A Rare Delayed Presentation in a 30-Year-Old Male", Volume 15 Issue 5, May 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1707-1708, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26526131757, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26526131757