Deformity in transient synovitis of Hip –
Now, the possible options might include other hip deformities like in septic arthritis (flexed, adducted, internally rotated), developmental dysplasia (hip dislocated), or Perthes disease (flexed, adducted, internally rotated). The correct answer here would be the flexed, abducted, and externally rotated deformity.
I need to make sure the explanation is clear. The core concept is the characteristic deformity of transient synovitis. The correct answer is right because the synovitis causes pain and spasm leading to that specific position. The wrong options are incorrect because they relate to other conditions with different deformities. The clinical pearl would emphasize differentiating transient synovitis from septic arthritis, as they can present similarly but have different management.
**Core Concept**
Transient synovitis of the hip is an inflammatory condition in children, often following viral infections, characterized by synovial fluid accumulation in the hip joint. The classic **deformity** results from pain-induced muscle spasm and protective positioning.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The hip adopts a **flexed, abducted, and externally rotated** position to minimize tension on the inflamed synovium. This posture is a protective response to pain, reducing mechanical stress on the joint capsule. Synovial inflammation causes effusion, which compresses the femoral nerve, contributing to the deformity.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Flexed, adducted, internally rotated β This is characteristic of **septic arthritis**, not transient synovitis.
**Option B:** Neutral position β Incorrect, as transient synovitis always causes a distinct deformity.
**Option C:** Hyperextended and rotated β Seen in **acetabular dysplasia**, not inflammatory conditions.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Differentiate transient synovitis from septic arthritis: both present with hip pain and limp, but septic arthritis has systemic signs (fever, leukocytosis) and a more restricted range of motion. **WBC count >10,000/mmΒ³** or **E. coli** suspicion mandates urgent drainage.
**Correct Answer: C. Flexed, abducted, and externally rotated**