A Rare Case of Infantile Cortical Hyperostosis (ICH) of the Bilateral Tibia or Caffey Disease

Hard Tilva1, Ankita Kanjiya2, Roshan Umate3

  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education & Research, Wardha, IND.

Cureus
|February 15, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Infantile cortical hyperostosis (ICH), or Caffey disease, causes subperiosteal bone hyperplasia in infants. This case highlights early leg swelling and irritability, confirmed by X-ray, requiring monitoring and anti-inflammatory treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Radiology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Infantile cortical hyperostosis (ICH), also known as Caffey disease, is an inflammatory condition affecting infants.
  • It is characterized by subperiosteal bone hyperplasia, primarily impacting long bones.

Observation:

  • A 10-day-old male infant presented with leg swelling, crying, and irritability.
  • Radiological examination revealed bilateral tibial anterior cortical hyperostosis, more pronounced on the right.
  • A similar tibial thickening recurred at 10 weeks of age.

Findings:

  • The infant received clinical monitoring, analgesics, and NSAIDs.
  • Symptoms of swelling and pain resolved within 1.5 weeks of hospitalization.
  • Continued outpatient follow-up was recommended for disease correction.

Implications:

  • Early recognition of ICH/Caffey disease is crucial for appropriate management.
  • Clinical-radiological correlation is essential for accurate diagnosis and monitoring.
  • This case underscores the importance of prompt diagnosis and management of infantile cortical hyperostosis.

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