ISELIN DISEASE: A RARE CAUSE OF LATERAL FOOT PAIN IN CHILDREN

Abstract

Iselin disease is a traction apophysitis at the base of 5^th metatarsal bone. It is due repetitive injury to the apophysis. It is an uncommon condition that affects children who are very active. Its’ being uncommon could stem from its benign nature and spontaneous healing and/or under-diagnosis. It is rarely reported and may remain undiagnosed or under-diagnosed without high index of suspicion by the attending physician. This is a case of a 9 year old girl, who presented with persistent pain in the lateral part of the left foot of 3 weeks’ duration. The pain disturbed her ambulation as well as her daily activities. Diagnosis was made from the plain radiograph, which revealed a longitudinally lying small bony fragment lateral to the base of the 5^th metatarsal bone. This is pathognomonic  of Iselin disease. Conservative management was sufficient in the treatment of this condition

This case was presented to highlight this condition in our environment. Attending physicians should be aware of this condition. High index of suspicion should be entertained in children presenting with lateral foot pain.