Common hip and limping pathologies in children

Question 1

Is transient synovitis in children self-limiting or does it require medical intervention?

Answer 1

Self-limiting reactive inflammation of synovium

Resolves spontaneously

Question 2

What is usually the cause of transient synovitis in children?

Answer 2

Usually no distinguishable cause

Question 3

What event usually precedes incidence of transient synovitis in children?

Answer 3

Viral infection (eg. cold, diarrhoea)

Question 4

Is transient synovitis more common in girls or boys?

Answer 4

Boys

Question 5

What age range has the peak onset of transient synovitis in children?

Answer 5

3-10 yrs old

Question 6

What are the 2 most common presentations of transient synovitis of the hip in children?

Answer 6

Mild-moderate hip pain

Limp

Question 7

Until transient synovitis in children resolves spontaneously, what medication is prescribed in the meantime and why?

Answer 7

NSAIDs

Pain management and anti-inflammatory effects

Question 8

Give 2 important differential diagnoses of suspected transient synovitis in children, and which is the main differential?

Answer 8

Osteomyelitis, septic arthritis

Septic arthritis must be excluded: Main differential