Elevated growth velocity in children with Perthes' disease.

Sequential measurements of height and weight from diagnosis to maturity in 44 children with Perthes' disease are presented. Both boys and girls have an increased growth velocity after the age of 6 years. In boys diagnosed prior to the age of 6 years, the pubertal growth spurt occurs early but is not sustained. Girls have a delayed but rapid pubertal growth spurt. Abnormal growth patterns are further evidence for the concept of "the susceptible child" and increased growth velocity may contribute to trabecular failure and subsequent epiphyseal infarction.