Adult idiopathic chondrolysis of the hip--report of two cases.

Idiopathic chondrolysis of the hip is characterized by pain, limping and a progressive restriction in the range of motion of the hip. The paper describes the case of two female patients, age 28 and 37, who were referred to our hospital in October 1985 and May 1991 for pain and limitation of movement in the right hip. Neither patient had a previous history of systemic illness or trauma or medication such as steroids. On admission they underwent clinical and X-ray examinations. Both required an open biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. They have been followed for 4 years and 8 years, respectively.