Recurrences of transient synovitis of the hip

Thirty six children with transient synovitis of the hip had a total of 80 recurrences, 69 of them personally observed, and 11 described by the mother. No features distinguished the initial attack of those who had a recurrence from that of the 18 children who have not so far had a recurrence. We analysed the total of 126 episodes. In 72 there was evidence of an associated infection from the history, clinical signs, and a raised antistreptolysin O titre or isolation of a pathogen from a throat swab. The prognosis is difficult to assess because the symptoms, signs, and special investigations are not specific. Recurrences can occur after many years without symptoms.     

Diaphragmatic hernia in Avon.

A study of diaphragmatic hernia in Avon suggests that the incidence of this malformation is increasing. The incidence in Avon from 1974 to 1977 was 0.54 per 1000 births, higher than any previously published figure for the incidence of diaphragmatic hernia.