Slipped capital femoral epiphysis in identical twins - a case report

Background. The pathoetiology of slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) has not been thoroughly established. Hormonal and genetic causes are the primary theories under discussion. There are some publications considering the occurrence of SCFE in identical twins. Material and methods. 15-year-old identical twins were admitted to our Department complaining of pain in the left groin and limping. A-P and axial x-rays presented slippage of the left capital femoral epiphysis. Results. Reposition and Kirschner pin fixation were performed in both patients with good clinical outcome. The follow-up period was 4 years. Conclusions. When SCFE occurs in one of a pair of identical twins it is prudent to take the second child under careful observation.