|
|
|
« Back
My daughter has a 10-year-old son who was just diagnosed with a problem we see on our reservation: Navajo arthropathy. They tell me this is inherited and can be serious. What's the best way to help my grandson with this condition?
|
|
Your role as a grandparent is very important -- both in terms of supporting your daughter but also encouraging your grandson. The condition known as Navajo Familial Neurogenic Arthropathy is uncommon so finding a physician to follow him who is familiar with the condition and appropriate treatment will be important.
Neurogenic refers to the loss of sensation to deep pain. Without that protective response, the child can develop joint deformities and problems with limb alignment (especially in the legs). Arthropathy is another term to mean joint disease.
The symptoms are similar from case to case. Bone fractures, joint destruction, and progressive deformities of the arms, legs, and spine are common and need the attention of an orthopedic surgeon. Although the focus is on the orthopedic (bone and joint) problems faced by these children, there are other problems. Anhidrosis (inability to sweat) is one of those problems. These children can't tolerate high temperatures.
Each child is treated according to his or her injuries or deformities but the results are often disappointing. Surgeons have learned to limit the amount of surgery done as a treatment measure and to rely more heavily on conservative (nonoperative) care.
It will be helpful for the family to have the following recommendations:
Expect a wide range of orthopedic deformities and limb misalignments.
Keep your regularly scheduled appointments with the orthopedic surgeon.
Be realistic about what treatment can offer -- infections and recurrence of joint problems are very common.
There is a high failure rate for surgery, so treatment should be conservative (bracing, assistive devices, wheelchair) as much as possible.
Fortunately, this is a rare problem. Affected individuals have normal intelligence, which may help them recognize the need for medical intervention and follow-up. Keeping in close contact with the orthopedic surgeon can help patients avoid serious complications that can contribute to loss of function and progressive disability.
|
References:
|
|
|
« Back
|
|
|
|
*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic. |
 | All content provided by eORTHOPOD® is a registered trademark of Mosaic Medical Group, L.L.C.. Content is the sole property of Mosaic Medical Group, LLC and used herein by permission. |
|
