Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is idiopathic osteonecrosis of which structure?

Prepare for the Non-Systems NPTE Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Achieve your exam success!

Multiple Choice

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is idiopathic osteonecrosis of which structure?

Explanation:
Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is an idiopathic avascular necrosis that specifically affects the capital femoral epiphysis—the growth-plate region at the head of the femur in children. The disease disrupts the blood supply to this epiphysis, leading to necrosis and later fragmentation and potential deformity of the femoral head as it remodels. That focused involvement of the femoral head’s epiphysis is why this choice is correct. The other sites listed—tibial epiphysis, acetabulum, and femoral neck—are not the primary structures affected by Perthes disease.

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is an idiopathic avascular necrosis that specifically affects the capital femoral epiphysis—the growth-plate region at the head of the femur in children. The disease disrupts the blood supply to this epiphysis, leading to necrosis and later fragmentation and potential deformity of the femoral head as it remodels. That focused involvement of the femoral head’s epiphysis is why this choice is correct. The other sites listed—tibial epiphysis, acetabulum, and femoral neck—are not the primary structures affected by Perthes disease.

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