Patient's question:
A child around 5 years old has recently been experiencing frequent complaints of leg pain, for no apparent reason. What is osteoarthritis?Doctor's answer:
Osteochondritis dissecans is a type of endemic disease, primarily characterized by joint degeneration affecting the cartilage and bone. It is more common in mountainous and hilly areas and is classified into two types:1. Onset in childhood: This form of the disease causes premature ossification of the epiphyseal plates, impairing growth and development. As a result, patients may exhibit short stature with enlarged joints. The joints become deformed, and their function is abnormal.
2. Onset after adolescence: This type typically involves recurrent joint pain, limited mobility, and joint swelling, which are common symptoms of arthritis.