Transient synovitis

• What is transient synovitis?


  Temporary inflammation of synovial lining of the hip joint

  Often results in a limp in children

  Most common cause of hip pain in children 3-10 yrs

  Children do not have a fever
• What is transient synovitis often referred to?


  irritable hip
• What are the RFs of transient synovitis?


  Male

  Age 2-10 yrs
• What are the signs & symptoms of transient synovitis?


  Acute onset of limp (w/ avoidance of weight bearing)

  Pain in the hip or referred knee pain

  Usually Hx of preceding viral illness
• What are the DDx of transient synovitis?


  Septic arthritis -> will have a high fever

  Osteomyelitis
• What are the Inx for transient synovitis?


  Obs

  Full Hx & examination

  Joint aspirate

  Bloods (FBC, CRP)

  Joint USS (will show effusion)

  XR of joint (will be normal)
• What is the management of transient synovitis?


  Supportive treatment

  • rest
  • analgesia
  • physiotherapy

  Usually resolves in around 7 days -> minimal risk of long-term joint damage
• Transient synovitis may recur in around 20% in pts.