PaediatricsOrthopaedics
Paediatric Limp / Septic Joint Workup
Age-stratified differentials, Kocher criteria for septic arthritis, distinguish from transient synovitis, recognise SUFE / Perthes.
Source: RCPCH; BOAST
Step 1 of ~8
info
Age-Stratified Differentials
Always consider safeguarding (NAI). Age-band differentials:
• <3y: developmental dysplasia, septic arthritis, osteomyelitis, NAI, neuromuscular.
• 3–10y: transient synovitis, septic arthritis, osteomyelitis, Perthes (4–10y boys), JIA.
• 10–16y: SUFE (overweight, often bilateral), Osgood-Schlatter, JIA, septic arthritis.
Always examine joint above and below; document range, weight-bearing, neurovascular status. Verify all paediatric drug doses against BNFc.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
Drugs
- Hydrocortisone (ICU — Stress Dosing) · Corticosteroid (ICU/Septic Shock)
- Melatonin · Melatonin Receptor Agonist
- Phytomenadione (Vitamin K1) · Vitamin K (clotting factor cofactor)
- Phytomenadione (Vitamin K1) · Vitamin K (Coagulation Factor Synthesis)
- Hydroxychloroquine · Aminoquinoline — Malaria Prophylaxis / SLE / Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Ibuprofen (Orthopaedic Musculoskeletal Pain) · NSAID — Non-selective COX Inhibitor
Decision support only. Always apply local guidelines and clinical judgement.