Internal diseases and molecular mechanisms causing slipped capital femoral epiphysis in children

Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is a hip disorder that predominantly affects adolescents. The primary pathological change involves the displacement of the femoral head epiphysis from its normal position at the growth plate toward the metaphysis of the femoral neck. This condition can result in hip pain, abnormal gait, and even avascular necrosis of the femoral head, significantly impacting the quality of life in adolescents. Currently, the exact etiology of SCFE remains unclear; however, evidence suggests that risk factors include endocrine disorders, metabolic conditions, and genetic diseases. Endocrine disorders encompass hypothyroidism, growth hormone abnormalities, hypogonadism, and obesity-related hormonal imbalances. Metabolic conditions involve obesity, vitamin D deficiency or rickets, and renal osteodystrophy. Genetic diseases include mutations in the COL2A1 gene, aromatase deficiency, and Prader-Willi syndrome. This review summarizes various medical conditions associated with SCFE and elucidates potential molecular mechanisms from abnormal chondrocyte function in the growth plate, hormonal imbalances and inflammatory/metabolic factors in SCFE based on relevant literature, aim to provide evidence for the prevention and treatment of SCFE.