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Greater trochanteric pain syndrome — SCE Rheumatology MCQ

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ModerateOsteoarthritis and soft tissue rheumatologyGreater trochanteric pain syndromeSCE Rheumatology

A 63-year-old woman has lateral hip pain worse when lying on that side and climbing stairs. There is tenderness over the greater trochanter, hip internal rotation is preserved and X-ray shows mild incidental OA. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: A — Greater trochanteric pain syndrome

Lateral hip pain with focal trochanteric tenderness and preserved hip rotation is typical of greater trochanteric pain syndrome. Hip OA usually causes groin pain and restricted internal rotation. A stress fracture should be considered with weight-bearing pain and risk factors, but the focal bursal/abductor tendon pattern is stronger here.

Reference: BSR rheumatology curriculum; NICE MSK guidance