Rapidly Destructive Osteoarthropathy of the Hip
Authors: Khanna AJ, Domb BG, Moshirfar A, Wenz JF Sr
PMID: 15195917
Purpose
To describe clinical features and possible causes of rapidly destructive osteoarthropathy (RDO) of the hip, a rare but severe hip joint degeneration.
Methods
Case series analyzing rapid femoral head and acetabular destruction, imaging findings, and proposed etiologies.
Key Findings
- Rapid femoral head collapse and acetabular destruction occur over months.
- Potential causes include subchondral insufficiency fractures, osteonecrosis, synovitis.
- Diagnosis relies on clinical progression and radiographic findings.
Conclusion
Early recognition of RDO is critical, as rapid progression typically necessitates prompt surgical intervention, often total hip arthroplasty.
What Does This Mean for Providers?
Maintain a high index of suspicion for RDO in patients with sudden, severe hip pain and rapid radiographic joint destruction. Early diagnosis expedites surgical referral, potentially improving outcomes.