Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease

Case contributed by Domenico Nicoletti
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Persistent left hip pain.

Patient Data

Age: 7 years
Gender: Male
x-ray

Reduced the height of the capital epiphysis of the left femur showing a modest increase in opacity.

mri

On T1-weighted images the double-line sign represents the sclerotic rim. This sign is demonstrated as a line between necrotic and viable bone edges with a hyperintense rim of granulation tissue. Low signal intensity in femoral epiphysis, metaphysis and proximal diaphysis due to edema. There is modest joint effusion.

Case Discussion

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease represents idiopathic avascular necrosis of the femoral head. It affects children between 2 and 12 years of age, with prevalence in children aged 5-6, and is more common in males. The initial symptoms are usually limping gait, pain in the hips, thighs and knees, and reduced hip mobility.

Case courtesy: Dr.ssa Sandra Pennacchini.

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