Ce. Dye et al., OSTEONECROSIS OF THE FEMORAL-HEAD IN HEMOPHILIACS - NOT ALL JOINT DISEASE IS HEMOPHILIC ARTHROPATHY, Haemophilia, 3(2), 1997, pp. 111-117
Osteonecrosis (ON) is rare while arthropathy is common in persons with
haemophilia. A recent case of bilateral ON of the femoral head prompt
ed us to review our experience with hip arthroplasty. We identified ni
ne patients with presumed end-stage haemophilic arthropathy. Four of t
he nine individuals had radiographic findings suggestive of ON, but wi
thout unequivocal microscopic evidence of ON. It is important to recog
nize ON at an early stage because there are surgical interventions whi
ch may prolong the life of the joint and improve quality of life. We s
uggest that ON should be included in the differential diagnosis of hip
pathology in persons with haemophilia presenting with hip pain or dys
function.