Down's syndrome and hip arthropathy

• Published in: Irish medical journal Vol. 102; no. 1; pp. 30 - 31
• Main Authors: Solayar, G, Hussey, D, Kelly, B, Mulhall, K J
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Ireland 01.01.2009
• Subjects: Adult; Arthralgia - diagnostic imaging; Arthralgia - drug therapy; Arthralgia - etiology; Arthralgia - surgery; Arthroplasty, Replacement, Hip; Down Syndrome - complications; Down Syndrome - diagnostic imaging; Down Syndrome - physiopathology; Hip Dislocation, Congenital - diagnostic imaging; Hip Dislocation, Congenital - drug therapy; Hip Dislocation, Congenital - etiology; Hip Dislocation, Congenital - surgery; Hip Joint - diagnostic imaging; Hip Joint - pathology; Hip Joint - surgery; Humans; Male; Radiography
• ISSN: 0332-3102

We report a case of a 19 year old male with Down's syndrome who presented with severe functional disability and pain secondary to bilateral hip arthritis. He had longstanding developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) that had evolved into end stage arthritis. Following a comprehensive assessment and counselling, he underwent bilateral total hip replacements. At last follow up, he had excellent outcome for function and pain relief. This case highlights the good results achievable with aggressive management of musculo-skeletal conditions (especially hip arthropathy) in those with Down's syndrome and the need for increased recognition of these conditions.