Synovitis (inflammation of joint lining)

Description Toxic synovitis and...

Description

Toxic synovitis and transient synovitis are different names for the same condition: an inflammation of synovium, tissue that is part of many body joints. The condition is caused by a viral infection. Most often, the condition involves the hip. The disorder is more common in boys and most commonly affects children 3-10 years of age. Inflammation of the synovium of the hip causes the child to cry when crawling, to limp or refuse to walk. 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

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
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).

Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), Ultrasound, X-ray

Specialists:
Orthopedic Surgery, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery

Treatment

Treatment involves rest and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen.