Chondrolysis of the hip in an adolescent: clinical and radiological outcomes

Idiopathic chondrolysis of the hip is a rare condition of unknown etiology characterized by progressive destruction of the hyaline cartilage that covers the femoral head and acetabulum. Idiopathic chondrolysis of the hip has an insidious beginning and affects more often female adolescents. Patients report severe hip pain, mobility limitation, and even claudication. This study aimed at reporting one case of that rare disease: an 11-year-old female adolescent with chondrolysis, followed up for three years. Inflammatory activity tests were normal. Imaging tests (radiography, ultrasonography and magnetic resonance) were essential for the diagnosis. The treatment was based on pain control and preservation of the joint mobility, and included low-impact physical activity, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, with good response after 12 months of treatment. Surgery was not necessary.