transient synovitis

Question 1

definition of transient synovitis

Answer 1

self-limiting inflammation of the synovium of a joint most commonly the hip joint

Question 2

when does it most commonly occur

Answer 2

after an upper respiratory tract infection but can be idiopathic

Question 3

classically affects

Answer 3

boys between 2 and 10 years old

Question 4

what do you have to rule out before you diagnose it as it is a diagnosis of exclusion only

Answer 4

septic arthritis, early onset juvenile arthritis, perches disease

Question 5

presentation

Answer 5

• painful limp
• they are reluctant to weight bear on the affected hip but it is possible for them
• may have a slight fever but are not systemically unwell nor are they septic
• range of motion in hip joint is slightly restricted

Question 6

investigations

Answer 6

• radiographs to exclude perthes
• inflammatory markers normal to exclude septic arthritis but if you have any suspicion do a surgical drainage as if missed septic arthritis will kill

Question 7

management

Answer 7

NSAIDS and resting the joint once all other causes ruled out