Aseptic Osteomyelitis of the Hip, an Unexpected Complication of Zoledronic Acid Treatment: A Case Report

Osteoporosis is a diffuse skeletal disorder characterized by decreased bone strength and a resultant increased risk of fracture. Zoledronic acid is a biphosphonate that is prescribed to patients with osteoporosis and preserved kidney function (glomerular filtration rate > 30 ml/min). We are reporting the case of an 80-year-old female with poly osteoarthritis who developed an aseptic osteomyelitis of the right hip two days after receiving a perfusion of zoledronic acid administered for the management of her osteoporotic fracture (with vertebral collapse at L1). Although minor secondary effects such as flu symptoms are reported following perfusions of zoledronic acid, the occurrence of osteomyelitis in this context remains unexplained. Spontaneous resolution was noted a few weeks later and with the administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.