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Perthes' Disease
Medical Questions » Perthes' Disease
| Name: Perthes' Disease |
| Also known as: |
| A disease of the hip that occurs in children. |
Causes of Perthes' Disease
Softening of the growing area of the thigh bone (femur) in children between 5 and 11 years of age, immediately below the hip joint, due to an abnormal blood supply to the bone. The softened bone becomes distorted and damaged as the child continues to walk on it. |
Symptoms of Perthes' Disease
The first sign is a limp, as the affected leg does not grow as well as the other, and becomes slightly shorter. Pain is the next symptom, and eventually walking may become impossible. |
Tests for Perthes' Disease
Diagnosis confirmed by an X-ray of the hip. |
Treatment for Perthes' Disease
Resting the affected leg by keeping the child in bed, on crutches or in a caliper. If there is significant deformity, or the bone at the top of the femur dies, an operation is necessary.
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Complications of Perthes' Disease of its treatment
Permanent deformity of the hip, and the development of early arthritis. |
Likely Outcome of Perthes' Disease
Treatment has varying success. In most cases, the condition settles after two years. |
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