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Legg-Calve-Perthes disease

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Legg-Calve-Perthes disease

Definition:

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is when the ball of the thighbone in the hip doesn't get enough blood, causing the bone to die. The dead bone is weak, which causes the ball to collapse and flatten. Usually only one hip is affected, although it's possible for both to develop the condition.

The blood supply returns over several months, bringing in new bone cells. These gradually replace the dead bone over 2 to 3 years.

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Alternative Names:
Coxa plana; Perthes disease

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease occurs most frequently in boys 4 to 8 years old. While there are many theories regarding the cause of this disease, little is actually known.

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