What condition does coxa plana describe?

Coxa plana refers specifically to a condition associated with a type of femoral head deformity, particularly seen in cases of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease. This disease typically affects children, especially boys, and causes temporary loss of blood supply to the femoral head, leading to avascular necrosis. As the condition progresses, the femoral head may flatten, which is known as coxa plana.

Answer B correctly identifies this condition as related to a type of femoral fracture in obese children. While the terminology may suggest a fracture, it is more accurate in describing the structural changes in the femoral head due to the disease rather than a traditional fracture. Understanding that coxa plana is indicative of pathology occurring in the femoral head in this specific demographic is vital for proper clinical recognition and treatment.

The other options do not accurately describe coxa plana. A fracture of the tibia does not relate to the hip joint and involves a different anatomical area. Degenerative joint disease refers to osteoarthritis, which is characterized by joint degeneration rather than a specific coxa plana condition. An infection of the hip joint would indicate septic arthritis, again a distinct condition associated with different symptoms and pathophysiology than coxa plana, which focuses on developmental