Transient Synovitis of the Hip - Toxic Synovitis

Toxic synovitis is an inflammation within the hip joint.

What is going on in the body?

Toxic synovitis is a non-traumatic hip pain, which means that it is not caused by an injury. Instead, pain is caused by swelling and inflammation in the hip. Toxic synovitis often follows an upper respiratory infection such as a cold or flu.

The person with the illness often refuses to walk or walks with a limp. Children 2 years old are most often affected, although it also strikes children between the ages of 3 and 10. It appears to be more common in boys than girls.

What are the causes and risks of the disease?

The cause of toxic synovitis is not known. It often follows an upper respiratory infection.

What are the signs and symptoms of the disease?

Symptoms of toxic synovitis can include:

Often, the person with this illness does not appear to be sick.

How is the disease diagnosed?

To diagnose toxic synovitis, a healthcare provider will take a detailed history and perform a complete physical exam. Tests may include:

A sample of joint fluid from the hip also may be sent to the lab to be analyzed.

What can be done to prevent the disease?

Since the cause of toxic synovitis is not known, there is no way to prevent it.

What are the long-term effects of the disease?

Usually there are no long-term effects from toxic synovitis.

What are the risks to others?

This condition is not known to be contagious.

What are the treatments for the disease?

Toxic synovitis usually heals without any treatment in 7 to 10 days. Sometimes healthcare providers suggest bed rest. Crutches may be recommended while the inflammation and pain is resolving. In rare cases, the use of traction with slight flexion of the hip may be needed. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines, called NSAIDS, may help decrease the pain and inflammation.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

NSAIDS may cause stomach upset.

What happens after treatment for the disease?

Toxic synovitis usually resolves without specific treatment within 7 to 10 days. If hip pain or a limp persists after this time, it is important to see a healthcare provider. A repeat exam will be needed to rule out other causes of the pain.

How is the disease monitored?

Repeat joint x-rays may be needed. Usually complete recovery is achieved without the need for long-term monitoring.

Author:Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
Date Written:
Editor:Smith, Elizabeth, BA
Edit Date:06/12/00
Reviewer:Vincent J. Toups, MD
Date Reviewed:05/18/01

Sources