Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease (LCPD) is a particular type of femoral head necrosis occurring in children. It is more common among boys, and bilateral involvement occurs in 8-24% of cases. The disease is usually diagnosed among children under age 14 years, with a peak onset between 5 and 8 years of age. There is delayed skeletal maturation and impaired growth. In addition to congenital abnormalities, LCPD is associated with greater risk of cardiovascular diseases and diseases of the blood. Most cases are sporadic, but familial cases have been described. It has been reported that COL2A1 mutations are associated with this disease.