Hip Joint Effusion, Pediatric
Hip joint effusion is a buildup of fluid in the hip joint. The hip joint is where the upper leg bone (femur) attaches to the hip bone (pelvic bone). The hip joint is a closed space. The lining of the hip joint (synovium) makes a lubricating fluid. This helps the top of the femur move easily in its socket in the pelvic bone.
If fluid builds up inside your child’s hip joint, it can cause the hip to become stiff and painful. Your child may complain of pain or refuse to walk. You may also notice your child limping. Mild cases of hip joint effusion go away with rest and medication. Some children may need emergency care in the hospital. Some children may need surgery.
CAUSES
The most common causes of hip joint effusion
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This condition is more common in boys than it is in girls.
It occurs most often in children 3–10 years old.
SYMPTOMS
Your child may:
Complain of pain in the hip, groin, or thigh.
Walk with a limp.
Avoid standing on the affected leg.
Try to avoid moving his or her hip.
DIAGNOSIS
Your child’s health care provider may suspect hip joint effusion based on your child's signs and symptoms. Your child's health care provider will do a physical exam. During the exam, the health care provider may watch your child walk to check how well your child's hip moves and whether moving the hip is painful. Your child may also need to have tests done to confirm the diagnosis. These may include:
A blood test to check for signs of infection and inflammation.
Imaging studies, such as:
Ultrasound.
X-rays.
MRI.
Bone scan.
A procedure to remove fluid from the joint (aspiration) to be tested in a lab. Your child may need this procedure if his or her health care provider suspects an infection.
TREATMENT
Treatment depends on the cause of your child's hip effusion.
Transient synovitis is treated with rest and medication. Your child may need to take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to help fight swelling and