Idiopathic chondrolysis of the hip: case report with a review of the literature.

The first case of idiopathic chondrolysis of the hip from South-East Asia is reported, with a review of the literature. The problems of differential diagnosis are discussed. As the condition is rare, it is likely to be misdiagnosed and may well be over-treated. The rarity of the condition and its natural history terminating in spontaneous fusion make it mandatory that a correct preoperative diagnosis be established in order to avoid needless radical surgery. Some of the significant clinicopathological findings are highlighted.