Identify the option that correctly describes genu varum.

Appeared in: PGICH Noida NO-2025

Explanation

Genu varum is the medical term for the condition commonly known as bowlegs.
It is characterized by an angular deformity at the knee, where the lower leg is angled outward in relation to the thigh.
Clinically, this presents as a noticeable gap between the knees when a person stands with their feet and ankles touching.
This alignment is considered normal (physiologic) in infants and toddlers, typically resolving by the age of 2-3 years.

Option A: This description matches talipes equinovarus, a congenital condition commonly known as clubfoot, which affects the foot and ankle, not primarily the knee alignment.
Option B: This describes the opposite condition, genu valgum, or 'knock-knees,' where the knees angle inward and touch while the ankles are apart.
Option C: This describes an over-pronated foot, often associated with pes planus (flatfoot). It is a deformity of the foot's arch and orientation, not the angle of the knee joint.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Definition and identification of lower limb deformities, specifically genu varum as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a key role in assessing musculoskeletal alignment in infants and children during routine check-ups to differentiate between normal physiological bowing and pathological conditions.
Parental education is crucial; nurses can reassure parents that physiological genu varum is common and typically self-corrects by age 2-3, reducing unnecessary anxiety.
What if? If a 4-year-old child presents with worsening bowlegs and a waddling gait, it is no longer considered physiological. This is a red flag for pathological conditions like Blount's disease or rickets, and the nurse must ensure prompt referral to a pediatric orthopedist.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core term in the question: 'genu varum'.
Recall the meaning of the Latin roots: 'genu' means knee, and 'varum' implies a bending outward or away from the midline (like a bow).
Scan the options to find the description that matches this 'outward bending at the knee'.
Option D directly states 'legs curve outward at the knees,' which perfectly matches the definition.
Briefly analyze the other options to confirm they are incorrect. Option B describes the opposite condition (genu valgum or knock-knees), while options A and C describe foot deformities, not knee alignment issues.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Definition and identification of lower limb deformities, specifically genu varum.
Stem keywords: genu varum, describes
Lead-in keywords: correctly
Negative lead-in flag: false

QwS2IHQ9jRZoIYnklEl7aO

E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 2 p. 2025-2027

Practise the full PGICH Noida NO-2025

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.