Transient osteopaenia of the hip in children.

The syndrome of transient osteopaenia of the hip is described in children for the first time. Six children 6-12 years of age are presented with follow-up between 1 and 4 years. The presenting symptoms, clinical signs, investigations, and radiologic changes are described, together with the findings at arthrotomy of the affected joints. This syndrome in children closely parallels that described in adults, but, presumably because of growth potential, enlargement of the affected bones occurred in two patients. Management, with emphasis on excluding more sinister pathology and avoiding excessive treatment, is outlined. The fact that the syndrome is characterised by spontaneous resolution is stressed.