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Differential Diagnosis for Bowing of the Knees in a 15-Month-Old

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Physiologic Genu Varum: This is the most common cause of bowing of the knees in toddlers, typically seen between 12 to 18 months of age. It is a normal variation in development where the legs appear bowed due to the angle of the growth plates.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Rickets: A condition caused by vitamin D deficiency, leading to softening of the bones and resulting in bowed legs. Justification: It's a common nutritional disorder that can cause bone deformities.
  • Blount's Disease: A growth disorder of the tibia (shin bone) that causes the lower leg to angle inward, resembling a bowleg. Justification: Although less common than physiologic genu varum, it's a well-known cause of bowed legs in toddlers.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Scurvy: A disease resulting from vitamin C deficiency, which can cause bone pain and deformities, including bowed legs. Justification: Although rare, scurvy can have severe consequences if left untreated, making it crucial not to miss this diagnosis.
  • Bone Dysplasias: A group of disorders that affect the growth and development of bones and cartilage, potentially leading to bowed legs. Justification: These conditions can have significant implications for the child's health and development, making early diagnosis critical.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Achondroplasia: A genetic disorder that affects bone growth, leading to short stature and potentially bowed legs. Justification: It's the most common form of short-limbed dwarfism but is relatively rare in the general population.
  • Metaphyseal Dysplasia: A rare genetic disorder affecting the metaphyses (ends) of the bones, which can result in bowed legs among other skeletal abnormalities. Justification: Its rarity and the specific nature of the bone involvement make it a less likely but still possible cause of bowed legs in a toddler.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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