The Painful Knee in Adolescence

Abstract

Knee problems are common in adolescence, and as the child approaches skeletal maturity, adult patterns of injury, particularly of the ACL, begin to emerge. It is essential not to overlook referred pain from the hip as the source of the problem, and unfortunately delays in diagnosing a slipped capital femoral epiphysis still occur. Adolescents are often active and minor trauma to the knee is commonplace, but again, it is important not to overlook a more serious diagnosis. For example, delays in diagnosing a malignant primary bone tumor of the distal femur or proximal tibia may occur because pain has been ascribed to recent minor trauma and red flag signs and symptoms have been overlooked.