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Hypertrophic osteoarthropathy in the paediatric age
Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology
|May 1, 1992
Summary
Hypertrophic osteoarthropathy presents as non-inflammatory joint swelling in children, often with finger clubbing. Early recognition is key, especially with underlying conditions like congenital heart disease or cystic fibrosis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Rheumatology
- Medical Genetics
- Radiology
Background:
- Hypertrophic osteoarthropathy (HO) is a rare condition affecting children.
- It is characterized by specific clinical and radiological findings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the key diagnostic features of HO in pediatric patients.
- To discuss associated conditions and their impact on HO presentation.
Main Methods:
- Clinical case review and analysis of diagnostic criteria for HO.
- Review of associated conditions including congenital heart disease, cystic fibrosis, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Main Results:
- HO should be suspected in children with non-inflammatory synovitis of knees, ankles, and wrists, especially with finger clubbing.
- Facial dysmorphism is typically absent in pre-adolescent children.
- Epiphyseal growth alterations and patellar shape changes are noted, with uncertain links to premature osteoarthrosis.
Conclusions:
- HO diagnosis in children requires consideration of synovitis, digital changes, and underlying conditions.
- While less common due to improved treatments for congenital heart disease and chest infections, HO remains a consideration, particularly in cystic fibrosis.
- HO can be associated with inflammatory bowel disease and pulmonary metastases but is rare.
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