Legg-Calve-Perthes (LCP) Disease
Introduction
This disease attacks the femoral head (the ball part of the ball-and-socket hip joint). It strikes children aged 4 to 8 and occurs in boys four times as often as girls. Those who are small for their age are also at risk. LCP typically affects only one hip.
Anatomy
In LCP disease, the femoral head gradually weakens and dies from a lack of blood supply. It becomes brittle and may collapse, leading to deformity and arthritis.
Causes
Experts don’t know for sure, but they suspect that LCP may be related to the presence of growth hormones in the body.
Symptoms
The problem develops gradually. The child will begin to feel pain in the hip joint or knee, then start to limp. The limp may get worse with activity. The affected leg may be shorter than the other.
Diagnosis
A history and physical exam will help your doctor diagnose LCP. X-rays and MRI may be helpful in confirming the diagnosis.
Treatment
The child may need traction followed by bracing, or may require an osteotomy to shift weight away from the collapsing bone.
