Osteochondritis Health Dictionary

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Osteochondritis: From 2 Different Sources

In?ammation of both BONE and CARTILAGE. It is a not uncommon cause of BACKACHE in young people, particularly gymnasts.
Health Source: Medical Dictionary
Author: Health Dictionary
(osteochondrosis) n. any one of a group of conditions affecting areas of growth at the *epiphyses and *apophyses of bones before skeletal maturity. Symptoms of localized pain and swelling are most common during periods of rapid growth in early adolescence. There are three types of osteochondritis: crushing (see Köhler’s disease; Kienböck’s disease; Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease; Scheuermann’s disease); splitting (see osteochondritis dissecans); and pulling (see Osgood-Schlatter disease; Sever’s disease).
Health Source: Oxford | Concise Colour Medical Dictionary
Author: Jonathan Law, Elizabeth Martin

Osteochondritis Dissecans

Degeneration of a bone just under a joint surface, causing fragments of bone and cartilage to become separated, which may cause the joint to lock. The condition commonly affects the knee and usually starts in adolescence. Symptoms include aching discomfort and intermittent swelling of the affected joint.

If a fragment has not completely separated from the bone, the joint may be immobilized in a plaster cast to allow reattachment. Loose bone or cartilage fragments in the knee are removed during arthroscopy. Disruption to the smoothness of the joint surface increases the risk of osteoarthritis.... osteochondritis dissecans

Osteochondritis Juvenilis

Inflammation of an epiphysis (growing end of bone) in children and adolescents, causing pain, tenderness, and restricted movement if the epiphysis forms part of a joint. The inflammation leads to softening of the bone, which may result in deformity. The condition may be due to disruption of the bone’s blood supply. There are several types: Perthes’ disease; Scheuermann’s disease, which affects several adjoining vertebrae; and other types that affect certain bones in the foot and wrist.

The affected bone may be immobilized in an orthopaedic brace or plaster cast. In Perthes’ disease, surgery may be required to prevent more deformity. The bone usually regenerates within 3 years and rehardens, but deformity may be permanent and increases the risk of osteoarthritis in later life.... osteochondritis juvenilis


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