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Chondromalacia of the patella
Chondromalacia of the patella
Runners knee
Runners knee
OverviewSymptomsTreatmentPrevention

Chondromalacia patellae

Definition:
Chondromalacia patellae is the softening and degeneration of the cartilage beneath the kneecap (patella).

Alternative Names:
Patellofemoral syndrome; Anterior knee pain

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Chondromalacia patella that occurs in adolescents and young adults is thought to be related to overuse, trauma, and/or abnormal forces on the knee. It is more common in females. Many affected adolescents have a mildly abnormal alignment of the kneecap.

Chondromalacia patella may also reflect arthritis of the kneecap, which is usually seen in older individuals.

People who have previously had a dislocation, a fracture, or other trauma to the kneecap may be more likely to get chondromalacia.



Review Date: 1/15/2003
Reviewed By: Andrew L. Chen, M.D., M.S., Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hospital for Joint Diseases, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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