Blount's disease

Blount's Disease

Blount's disease (/blaʊnts/; also known as tibia vara) is a growth disorder that affects the bones of the lower leg, causing them to bow outward. This condition can occur in young children and adolescents.

Etymology

The disease is named after Walter Putnam Blount (1900–1992), an American pediatric orthopedist who first described the condition in 1937.

Definition

Blount's disease is a pathological condition characterized by a disturbance in the medial growth plate of the tibia, leading to progressive bowing and turning of the leg, and can affect one or both legs. The disease is more common in African American children and those with obesity.

Symptoms

The most noticeable symptom of Blount's disease is a bowing of the leg below the knee. In some cases, this can cause a noticeable limp or difficulty walking. Other symptoms may include pain in the knee or leg, and differing leg lengths.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Blount's disease is typically made through a combination of physical examination and imaging tests, such as X-rays. In some cases, a CT scan or MRI may be used to provide more detailed images of the bones and surrounding tissues.

Treatment

Treatment for Blount's disease depends on the severity of the condition and the age of the patient. In mild cases or in very young children, conservative treatments such as bracing may be used. In more severe cases, or if the disease progresses despite conservative treatment, surgery may be necessary.

Related Terms

• Orthopedics
• Bone growth
• Growth plate
• Tibia
• Knee

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Blount's disease
• Wikipedia's article - Blount's disease

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