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Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is a childhood degenerative disease of the hip joint, caused by inadequate blood flow. Treatment options include medication, braces, and surgery. The cause is unknown, but exposure to secondhand smoke may be a factor. Early detection is important for a better prognosis. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, and restricted range of motion. Treatment aims to prevent permanent damage to the hip joint.
Legg-Calve-Perthes is a degenerative disease of the hip joint. Resulting from inadequate blood flow, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease can negatively affect hip health and stability. Also known as avascular necrosis of the hip, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is a childhood disease most commonly diagnosed in boys. Multifaceted in approach, treatment for this degenerative disease focuses on protecting the hip joint from irreparable damage. Common treatment options range from the use of medications designed to reduce inflammation to braces and surgery.
There is no known cause for developing Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. Some medical organizations, such as the Mayo Clinic, say its development may be linked to exposure to secondhand smoke. Although the disease can occur bilaterally, meaning it can affect both hips at the same time, it generally only occurs unilaterally or on one side.
Under normal circumstances, proper circulation supplies all parts of the body with oxygenated and nutrient-rich blood. In the case of Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, blood circulation intended to supply the hip joint becomes impaired. The blood-starved cells within the hip joint immediately begin to perish. The disappearance of bone cells contributes to the onset of bone deterioration, leaving affected bone matter compromised even as new healthy cells arrive. The resulting instability of the hip joint leaves it vulnerable to fracture and unable to heal as it normally would.
Legg-Calve-Perthes disease can be diagnosed at any time in infancy but is most commonly detected during the second year of a child’s life. The sooner the disease is detected, the better the prognosis for the child. After a thorough consultation and physical exam, a series of imaging tests is usually done. Bone scans and X-rays are often done to evaluate the condition of the hip joint and to check for bone abnormalities or changes.
Children with Legg-Calve-Perthes disease often show a limp and complain of pain on the affected side. It is not uncommon for a restricted range of motion to induce stiffness that travels down the hip to the knee. Some children may find that resting or not moving the joint relieves the pain. Over time, a child’s lameness can contribute to muscle tightness in the affected limb. If the symptoms of Legg-Calve-Perthes disease are ignored or treatment is delayed, permanent damage to the hip joint can occur.
Treatment for Legg-Calve-Perthes disease focuses on preventing permanent damage to the hip joint. Anti-inflammatory medications are often used to relieve inflammation and relieve discomfort. While the use of crutches to relieve lameness may be appropriate in some cases, a splint to immobilize the bone may be necessary in others. Surgery may also be done to correct muscle tightness or make changes to the hip joint.
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