Which signs are associated with chondromalacia patellae?

• A. Knee pop, Patella pain
• B. Drawer sign
• C. Finkelstein's Test
• D. Palpable fissure

Answer: (A)

Chondromalacia patellae is a condition where the patellar cartilage becomes softened and rough, leading to irritation of the patellofemoral joint. The most telling signs are anterior knee pain around the patella and crepitus or grinding as the patella tracks in the femoral groove. A knee pop or crackling during movement reflects that roughened joint surfaces are rubbing together, which is a classic clue to patellofemoral irritation.

The other signs point to different problems: a positive drawer sign indicates ACL laxity, Finkelstein’s test targets De Quervain’s tenosynovitis of the wrist/thumb, and a palpable fissure is not a typical hallmark of chondromalacia. So knee pop with patellar pain best aligns with chondromalacia patellae.