Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease

Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease is a rare childhood hip disorder that affects the capital femoral epiphysis, which is the ball at the top of the femur (thigh bone) that forms the hip joint. The condition is characterized by a temporary loss of blood supply to this area, leading to necrosis (death) of the bone tissue.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to interruptions in the blood supply to the capital femoral epiphysis. Risk factors for developing the condition include:

• Age: Typically affects children between 4 and 10 years old
• Gender: More common in boys than girls
• Family history: May be more common in families with a history of the condition
• Trauma: May be triggered by a traumatic injury to the hip

Symptoms

The symptoms of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease may develop gradually over time and can include:

• Pain in the hip, groin, or knee
• Limping or difficulty walking
• Stiffness or limited range of motion in the hip joint
• Muscle weakness in the affected leg

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease is typically made through a combination of:

• Physical examination: To assess hip mobility and strength
• Imaging tests: X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to evaluate the bone and joint
• Medical history: To rule out other potential causes of symptoms

Treatment

Treatment for Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease depends on the severity of the condition and the age of the child. Options may include:

• Observation: Monitoring the condition with regular follow-up appointments
• Physical therapy: To maintain hip mobility and strength
• Pain management: Medications to control pain and discomfort
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to restore blood flow or repair damaged bone and joint tissue

Prognosis

The prognosis for Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease varies depending on the severity of the condition and the effectiveness of treatment. With proper management, most children can expect to recover fully and have normal hip function. However, some may experience long-term complications, such as:

• Early onset osteoarthritis
• Hip deformity or degeneration
• Chronic pain or stiffness