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The rythm of decline of maternally acquired IgG levels during the neonatal period differs widely from one subject to another. It does not always obey a simple exponential law, and calculations of half-life during the first 2 weeks of life are not very valid up till now. A sudden fall is often observed between the 1st and 4th day, particularly when the initial concentration is high (it represents 25% of the level on an average). The rythm slows down after the fourth or the eighth day. Under normal conditions, the newborn organism rarely synthesizes IgG in quantities that can be measured by ordinary techniques. However, in various pathological conditions an appreciable rise in IgG level may be seen, very probably connected with active formation.

1. The pathological anatomy of osteochondritis dissecans of the hip is described, and its causation is discussed.2. Eight new cases are reported.3. The problems of treatment are considered.