Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease involves bone destruction (osteonecrosis) of the rounded head of the thigh bone (femur) during childhood. The osteonecrosis results from a temporary loss of blood supply, although the cause for this condition has not been determined.

Prevalence

• Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease is most likely in children between 4 and 8 years of age, and is five times more prevalent in boys, as noted by the Mayo Clinic website.

Symptoms

• The first symptom of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease commonly is a painless limp. This may progress to knee and hip pain, stiffness and restricted movement.

Considerations

• After bone cells die, new cells naturally replace them, and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease tends to resolve on its own. However, the child should have medical attention because problems can occur during the regrowth process, such as a fracture or abnormal bone formation.

Complications

• If regrowth occurs in an abnormal manner, Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease can lead to muscle wasting in the upper thigh, permanent hip joint deformity, shortening of the leg, and adult arthritis.

Treatment

• Treatment focuses on protecting the femur during bone regrowth. The child may need to wear casts or use crutches until the condition has resolved, and physical therapy can help. Some cases require surgery.