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Legg-calve-perthes disease

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is a disease caused by a decreased blood supply to the top of the thigh bone leading to bone death. This can cause the top of the thigh bone, or head to collapse. If not treated, this may cause a deformity. Sometimes it may be called Legg's disease.

The cause of this disease is not known. It happens to children, usually between the ages of 4 and 10. Boys have this more often than girls, although girls can also have it. This usually is in only one hip.

The symptoms usually start with an achy pain in the hip or groin area, where the leg meets the body. The pain can also be in the thigh or knee. Sometimes, there will be a limp. Many times, the pain will stop with rest.

A healthcare provider should see any child with a limp that does not go away in a couple of days. To find the cause of the pain or limp, the provider will need to do an x-ray of the hip. An MRI may also be done.

Treatment depends on how early in the disease the provider first sees the child. Sometimes, no treatment is needed. Often, a special cast or brace will be used to get the weight off the thigh bone. The provider will need to see the child often to see if the top of the thigh bone starts to grow again. It may take a long time for the thigh bone to heal. Sometimes surgery is needed.

After three years, the blood supply to the top of the thigh bone is usually back to normal. The child may not have any more problems.

A healthcare provider should see any child with hip pain, knee pain, stiffness, or a limp. This is especially important in very young children, even as young as 2 years of age.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File BONE3434.RF2 VRS# 7621 Data Version 7.0 Copyright 1999, 2002-2003 McKesson Health Solutions LLC. All rights reserved.