Synovitis (Toxic Or Transient)
Description
Toxic synovitis and transient synovitis are identical. Both are a viral infection that most often involves the hip. The virus produces inflammation and swelling of the hip causing the patient to cry when crawling, limp or refuse to walk. The disorder is more common in boys and most commonly affects children 3-10 years of age. The illness begins with a low grade fever. No specific treatment is needed. The healthcare provider may do tests to ensure the patient does not have septic arthritis, a serious bacterial infection of the joint.
Symptoms
Low grade fever, recent cough and runny nose, recent vomiting and/or diarrhea, limping, refusal to crawl or walk, hip pain, leg pain, knee pain.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be done. An ultrasound may be performed to determine if there is fluid in the joint. Blood tests, x-rays, CT scan and a MRI may be done to rule out other causes of the pain. Fluid may be taken from the hip joint (arthrocentesis) to ensure the patient is not suffering from a bacterial joint infection (septic arthritis).
- CBC
- MRI
- Ultrasound
- X-Ray
Treatment
Treatment involves rest and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen.
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