Perthes' disease Flashcards
What is Perthes’ disease?
Degenerative condition affecting the hip joints of children
Which age group of children are typically affected by Perthes’ disease?
4–8-year-olds
What is Perthes’ disease due to?
Avascular necrosis of the femoral head (epiphysis)
What is there no history of in children with Perthe’s disease?
There is no history of trauma
How does Perthes’ disease normally present?
3 weeks of hip pain with a worsening limp
-Reduced range of movement
-Pain on passive movement of the hip
How is Perthes’ disease diagnosed?
X-ray
What might you see on an early x-ray of someone with Perthes’ disease?
Widening of the joint space
What might you see on a late x-ray of someone with Perthes’ disease?
Decreased femoral head size
What investigation would you do if symptoms persisted, but x-ray is normal?
MRI
What is the management of Perthes’ disease?
Conservative measures like bed rest and traction.
Who is Perthes’ disease more common in?
5x more common in boys than girls
What are the possible complications of Perthe’s disease?
- osteoarthritis
- premature fusion of the growth plates
What is the management of perthes’ disease if conservative management fails?
Plaster cast keeping the hip abducted or osteotomy
How can Perthes’ disease be differentiated from transient synovitis?
Transient synovitis only lasts fr about 2 weeks, Perthes’ lasts for 4 weeks
