A child with Perthes disease in one hip may develop a slipped capital femoral epiphysis in the contralateral hip. We present out management of such a rare case with radiological evidence.
A four year old girl presented with Perthes disease of her right hip and was treated with broomstick plaster for eighteen months. At routine follow up aged 12, she was found to have a shorter right leg of 1 cm which was confirmed on CT scanogram. Within two months, she complained of left hip discomfort. X-rays taken showed a mild slip of her left upper femoral epiphysis with thickening of the epiphyseal line and a positive Trethowen’s sign. This was felt to be a chronic slip. The left hip epiphysis was pinned using a single cannulated screw. She was treated with non-weight bearing crutches for 6 weeks. The pain settled and she was walking pain free at 6 months post-operatively with full painless range of movement and no leg length discrepancy.
A combination of Perthes disease and slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCUFE) is very rare in children. Only a few cases have been found until date in the literature. SCFE can present as acute, chronic and acute on chronic types. This case is rather interesting because of the coexisting different hip pathologies in the same patient. Secondly Perthe’s and SCUFE are both common in males but in this case it’s a female patient. So far the literature have not found any correlation between these two conditions. But we can be vigilant that a child with Legg-Calve-Perthe’s disease in one hip may develop a slipped capital femoral epiphysis in the contralateral hip.
Perthes disease in right hip, SCUFE in left hip.
Based on the provided pelvis AP X-ray, the following observations can be made:
Taking into account the patient’s past medical history (right hip Perthes disease and left hip SCFE with internal fixation) and imaging findings, the most likely diagnoses are:
The current radiological findings are consistent with postoperative status and the long-term sequelae of Perthes disease. If further evaluation of joint cartilage, vascular supply, or physeal recovery is needed, MRI or additional imaging and clinical follow-up are recommended.
Adherence to the “FITT-VP” principle (Frequency, Intensity, Time, Type, Volume/Progression) is recommended. Begin with low intensity and short duration, gradually increasing both while closely monitoring joint function and pain.
If there are concerns about bone fragility, overweight, or compromised cardiopulmonary function, exercise duration should be shortened, endurance training enhanced, and water-based or supportive activities used to reduce joint loading.
Disclaimer: This report is based solely on the provided images and text materials and is intended for reference only. It is not a substitute for an in-person consultation or professional medical advice. If you experience discomfort or any changes in your condition, please seek medical attention promptly.
Perthes disease in right hip, SCUFE in left hip.