Managing Legg Calve-Perthes Disease in a 12-Year-Old: A Case Study

Abstract

Abstract Perthes disease, also known as Legg Calve-Perthes disease, is a rare childhood condition that affects the hip bone. It is more commonly found in boys than girls and typically occurs between the ages of 5 and 10. While the exact cause is unknown, some suggest that persistent ischemia may be a factor. Symptoms of the disease include hip pain, limping while walking, pain that radiates to the knee, and hip stiffness. Upon examination, patients may experience reduced movements and abduction, restricted internal rotation, and shortening. Radiological findings may reveal a collapsed hip head and sclerosis, as well as an increase in the space of the hip joint, and the femoral head may even come out of the acetabulum. Treatment options range from conservative measures to operative procedures such as osteotomy, which can help to revascularize the necrotic bone.