Congenital Hallux Valgus Treated by Conservative Therapy : A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction : Congenital hallux valgus is a rare condition. However, many cases have been reported as a feature of fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP).
Patient : A 5-month-old male infant.
Chief complaint : Bilateral hallux valgus deformity.
Presentation : Bilateral hallux valgus had been evident at birth, and the patient was referred to our hospital from his referring physician at 5 months of age. Medical and family history : No remarkable findings.
Treatment : We treated the patient with an orthopedic appliance, but no improvement in the deformity was showed. At the age of 1 year and 5 months, FOP was diagnosed by genetic analysis. Currently, the patient is 1 year and 8 months old, and there has been no change in the bilateral hallux valgus deformity. No mass on the back has yet appeared.
Discussion : A shortened great toe and hallux valgus are frequently found in patients with FOP. The first step when encountering patients with congenital hallux valgus is to make a genetic diagnosis. If this reveals FOP, treatment must be conservative, and neither operation nor biopsy is indicated. If genetic diagnosis is negative, a search for other congenital diseases must be made. In any event, conservative treatment is the first choice.