A case report of Osteochondrosis of ischiopubic synchondrosis (Van Neck-Odelberg Disease): a diagnostic dilemma in a pediatric population

Van Neck–Odelberg disease also known as Osteochondritis ischiopubica is a rare form of osteochondritis. Ischiopubic Synchondrosis (IPS) is a temporary cartilaginous joint found between the ischium and inferior pubic ramus present at birth which undergoes complete pre-pubertal ossification. Pain in the groin, lower limb, and/or buttock in the ischiopubic region poses a significant diagnostic challenge in the pre-pubertal age group. Paediatric patients presenting with unilateral pain in the groin and associated limp consist of wide range of differential diagnoses ranging from trauma-induced fractures, infectious disease as well as neoplastic process. A detailed clinical examination with corresponding imaging findings is paramount to arrive at a diagnosis. We present an 11-year-old, right limb dominant boy, a foot-ball player who experienced an acute tenderness in the left groin and buttock as the only concerning symptom post playing a game. After performing clinical examination, laboratory tests, and pelvic / hip radiographic evaluation, the boy was diagnosed with Van Neck-Odelberg disease. Intense sports activities is associated with overuse injuries in children, especially before completing the ossification process. A thorough evaluation and detailed knowledge of this rare condition helps to avoid unnecessary investigations and unwarranted invasive procedures in a resource constrained countries.