title: Transient synovitis, septic hip, and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease: an approach to the correct diagnosis.
abstract: Transient synovitis, septic hip, and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease are common conditions in children. Distinguishing between these disorders can be a diagnostic challenge. Similar presentations, in an age group difficult to examine, coupled with literature that is confusing creates difficulty. It is important to make the correct diagnosis of septic hip in a timely fashion to avoid serious and potentially crippling consequences. As there is no single test for discriminating between these conditions, knowledge of the nuances of clinical presentation, physical examination, laboratory investigations, and imaging is essential. Judicious use of clinical algorithms can complement clinical acumen.
authors.affiliation: Division of Pediatric Orthopaedics, Department of Orthopaedics, Golisano Childrens Hospital, University of Rochester, 601 Elmwod Avenue, Rochester, NY 14642, USA. Electronic address: Christopher_Cook@urmc.rochester.edu.
authors.forename: P Christopher
authors.initials: PC
authors.lastname: Cook
mesh_terms: D000465:Algorithms; D001170:Arthritis, Infectious / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005334:Fever / Q000209:etiology; D006621:Hip Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007873:Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis*; D010146:Pain / Q000209:etiology; D011859:Radiography; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D013585:Synovitis / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis*; D014463:Ultrasonography
keywords: Clinical algorithm; Effusion; Fever; Non–weight bearing; Range of motion