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Surface bone sarcomas are rare malignant bone tumours. Osseous and cartilaginous surface bone sarcomas are the most common, with parosteal and periosteal osteosarcomas, periosteal chondrosarcomas and secondary peripheral chondrosarcomas being the most frequent. Their clinical symptoms are non-specific and include pain for several months, swelling and limited range of motion of the adjacent joints. Prompt diagnosis is important, as biological behaviour, imaging and histopathologic characteristics, treatment and prognosis differ considerably from their conventional intramedullary counterparts. Moreover, their imaging characteristics are not infrequently non-characteristic and may be misinterpreted as juxtacortical benign lesions leading to incorrect diagnosis and treatment, with life-threatening repercussions. Molecular studies and histopathological sampling are essential for accurate diagnosis. There are still numerous issues regarding the biology, pathophysiology and treatment options of these entities due to their rarity. Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2021;6:905-917. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.6.210064

We present an adolescent girl with severe kyphoscoliosis and inability of walking due to progressive pseudorheumatoid dysplasia (PPD) who was initially misdiagnosed as juvenile idiopathic arthritis for 9 years. The lack of inflammatory joint involvement and inflammatory laboratory parameters, along with the characteristic radiological findings should raise suspicion for PPD.

Myositis ossificans (MO) is a benign bone formation in an extra-skeletal location. The most common subtype of MO, the post-traumatic, usually develops in young males after a traumatic event or sports injury. MO may simulate malignant bone lesions such as extra-skeletal or surface osteosarcomas, or soft tissue sarcomas such as synovial sarcoma or undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma. In the early phase the diagnosis of MO is challenging because imaging and histopathological findings may be non-characteristic. Detailed medical history as well as clinical examination, follow-up imaging studies and histological assessment are crucial for a proper diagnosis. Early and accurate differential diagnosis between MO and malignant soft tissue and bone tumours is important to maximize. Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2021;6:572-583. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.6.210002

Introduction For persons with hemophilia, optimization of joint outcomes is an important unmet need. The aim of this initiative was to determine use of ultrasound in evaluating arthropathy in persons with hemophilia, and to move toward consensus among hemophilia care providers regarding the preferred ultrasound protocols for global adaptation. Methods A global survey of hemophilia treatment centers was conducted that focused on understanding how and why ultrasound was being used and endeavored to move toward consensus definitions of both point‐of‐care musculoskeletal ultrasound (POC‐MSKUS) and full diagnostic ultrasound, terminology to describe structures being assessed by ultrasound, and how these assessments should be interpreted. Next, an in‐person meeting of an international group of hemophilia health care professionals and patient representatives was held, with the objective of achieving consensus regarding the acquisition and interpretation of POC‐MSKUS and full diagnostic ultrasound for use in the assessment of musculoskeletal (MSK) pathologies in persons with hemophilia. Results The recommendations were that clear definitions of the types of ultrasound examinations should be adopted and that a standardized ultrasound scoring/measurement system should be developed, tested, and implemented. The scoring/measurement system should be tiered to allow for a range of complexity yet maintain the ability for comparison across levels. Conclusion Ultrasound is an evolving technology increasingly used for the assessment of MSK outcomes in persons with hemophilia. As adoption increases globally for clinical care and research, it will become increasingly important to establish clear guidelines for image acquisition, interpretation, and reporting to ensure accuracy, consistency, and comparability across groups.

Most musculoskeletal tumors are hyperintense on T2-weighted images. However, some T2-weighted hypointense tumors and tumor-like lesions are encountered in everyday clinical practice. We explore the spectrum of such T2 hypointense tumors and tumor mimickers that can arise from (1) the bones, presenting as diffuse processes or focal lesions; (2) the joints including diffuse or focal synovial disorders, loose bodies, or substance depositions; and (3) soft tissues, comprising T2 hypointense tumors and tumor mimickers (those that contain abundant fibrous tissue, mineralization, or hemosiderin deposits). Appropriate magnetic resonance imaging sequence selection is required to identify and characterize these lesions confidently when imaging musculoskeletal tumors.

Whole-body magnetic resonance imaging (WB-MRI) is gradually being integrated into clinical pathways for the detection, characterization, and staging of malignant tumors including those arising in the musculoskeletal (MSK) system. Although further developments and research are needed, it is now recognized that WB-MRI enables reliable, sensitive, and specific detection and quantification of disease burden, with clinical applications for a variety of disease types and a particular application for skeletal involvement. Advances in imaging techniques now allow the reliable incorporation of WB-MRI into clinical pathways, and guidelines recommending its use are emerging. This review assesses the benefits, clinical applications, limitations, and future capabilities of WB-MRI in the context of other next-generation imaging modalities, as a qualitative and quantitative tool for the detection and characterization of skeletal and soft tissue MSK malignancies.

To assess the safety and efficacy of computed tomography-guided radiofrequency (RF) ablation and magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) in the treatment of osteoid osteoma with a long-term follow-up study.Database research was performed at 2 different centers with experience in musculoskeletal interventions. Both centers, one performing RF ablation and the other MRgFUS, identified 116 patients who underwent either RF ablation or MRgFUS procedures for the treatment of symptomatic osteoid osteoma and retrospectively evaluated data regarding pain scores using a visual analog scale (VAS). Complications were recorded according to the Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiological Society of Europe classification system. Propensity score matching for multiple variables was performed. Pain scores before and after therapy were compared.Of 116 patients treated, 61 and 55 underwent RF ablation and MRgFUS, respectively. Before treatment, the mean reported pain in the 2 groups were 9.1 ± 0.88 (RF ablation) and 8.7 ± 0.73 (MRgFUS) VAS units. After treatment, a statistically significant (P.00001) overall reduction in pain symptomatology was recorded. No statistically significant difference was observed between the mean values of pain after treatment in both groups (P = .256). Over a mean of2 years of follow-up, 4 cases of relapse (RF ablation, 1; MRgFUS, 3) and 1 complication (RF ablation) were observed. The analysis from propensity score matching that identified a matched cohort of 48 patients showed similar results.The 2 techniques for the treatment of osteoid osteoma resulted in profound and similar pain relief. The presence of thick cortical bone over the nidus can reduce the effectiveness of MRgFUS.

Soft tissue sarcomas encompass multiple entities with differing recurrence rates and follow-up intervals. The detection of recurrences and their differentiation from post-therapeutic changes is therefore complex, with a central role for the clinical radiologist. This article describes approved recommendations. Prerequisite is a precise knowledge of the current clinical management and surgical techniques. We review recurrence rates and treatment modalities. An adequate imaging technique is paramount, and comparison with previous imaging is highly recommended. We describe time-dependent therapy-related complications on magnetic resonance imaging compared with the spectrum of regular post-therapeutic changes. Early complications such as seromas, hematomas, and infections, late complications such as edema and fibrosis, and inflammatory pseudotumors are elucidated. The appearance of recurrences and radiation-associated sarcomas is contrasted with these changes. This systematic approach in follow-up imaging of soft tissue sarcoma patients will facilitate the differentiation of post-therapeutic changes from recurrences.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common paediatric rheumatic disease. It represents a group of heterogenous inflammatory disorders with unknown origin and is a diagnosis of exclusion in which imaging plays an important role. JIA is defined as arthritis of one or more joints that begins before the age of 16 years, persists for more than 6 weeks and is of unknown aetiology and pathophysiology. The clinical goal is early suppression of inflammation to prevent irreversible joint damage which has shifted the emphasis from detecting established joint damage to proactively detecting inflammatory change. This drives the need for imaging techniques that are more sensitive than conventional radiography in the evaluation of inflammatory processes as well as early osteochondral change. Physical examination has limited reliability, even if performed by an experienced clinician, emphasising the importance of imaging to aid in clinical decision-making. On behalf of the European Society of Musculoskeletal Radiology (ESSR) arthritis subcommittee and the European Society of Paediatric Radiology (ESPR) musculoskeletal imaging taskforce, based on literature review and/or expert opinion, we discuss paediatric-specific imaging characteristics of the most commonly involved, in literature best documented and clinically important joints in JIA, namely the temporomandibular joints (TMJs), spine, sacroiliac (SI) joints, wrists, hips and knees, followed by a clinically applicable point to consider for each joint. We will also touch upon controversies in the current literature that remain to be resolved with ongoing research. Key Points: • Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common chronic paediatric rheumatic disease and, in JIA imaging, is increasingly important to aid in clinical decision-making. • Conventional radiographs have a lower sensitivity and specificity for detection of disease activity and early destructive change, as compared to MRI or ultrasound. Nonetheless, radiography remains important, particularly in narrowing the differential diagnosis and evaluating growth disturbances. • Mainly in peripheral joints, ultrasound can be helpful for assessment of inflammation and guiding joint injections. In JIA, MRI is the most validated technique. MRI should be considered as the modality of choice to assess the axial skeleton or where the clinical presentation overlaps with JIA., SCOPUS: re.j, info:eu-repo/semantics/published

Background Haemophilic children are prone to low bone mass accrual. Objective To assess bone properties in haemophilic children, using peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT) and to correlate findings with clinical data. Subjects/methods Peripheral quantitative computed tomography scan of both radii and tibiae were performed in 31 haemophilic A children (severe 24, mean age 11.2 years). Seven subjects had a history of inhibitors. Five children had an upper extremity target-joint and 12 had at least one lower extremity target-joint. The following parameters were measured: trabecular, total and cortical bone density and content (TBD, ToBD, CBD, TbC, CC), strength-stress index (SSI), and tibial cross-sectional area (CA), outer and inner bone contour length (PERI, ENDO) and cortical thickness (CTHC). Results Mean right radius TBD was significantly higher than the left one (P = 0.015). In subjects with arm target-joint, radius TBD was significantly lower in the target than in non-target arm (186.6 ± 60.4 vs 218.6 ± 39.8, P = 0.032). Left arm target-joint subjects had significantly lower left radius TBD in comparison to subjects without arm target-joint (155.4 ± 50.3 vs 215.7 ± 37.9, P = 0.019). There were no similar differences in leg target-joint. Bone quality and geometry parameters in cortical compartment were significantly lesser in inhibitor group, with statistically significant side-to-side differences for legs and arms and left side predominance. Conclusion In children with haemophilia A and a history of target-joint and/or FVIII inhibitor, abnormalities may occur in the long bones as were revealed by pQCT, where low trabecular density and weak cortical bone quality in upper and lower extremities, respectively, were confirmed.

This study reports the reliability of the juvenile idiopathic arthritis magnetic resonance imaging scoring system (JAMRIS-SIJ). The study comprised of eight raters—two rheumatologists and six radiologists—and 30 coronal T1 and Short-Tau Inversion Recovery (STIR) MRI scans of patients with enthesitis-related juvenile spondylarthritis. The median age of patients was 15 years with a mean disease duration of 5 years and 22 (73.3%) of the sample were boys. The inter-rater agreement of scores for each of the JAMRIS-SIJ items was calculated using a two-way random effect, absolute agreement, and single rater intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC 2.1). The ICC was interpreted together with kurtosis, since the ICC is also affected by the distribution of scores in the sample. The eight-rater, single measure inter-rater ICC (and kurtosis) values for JAMRIS-SIJ inflammation and damage components were the following: bone marrow edema (BME), 0.76 (1.2), joint space inflammation, 0.60 (1.8), capsulitis, 0.58 (9.2), enthesitis, 0.20 (0.1), ankylosis, 0.89 (35), sclerosis, 0.53 (4.6), erosion, 0.50 (6.5), fat lesion, 0.40 (21), backfill, 0.38 (38). The inter-rater reliability for BME and ankylosis scores was good and met the a priori set ICC threshold, whereas for the other items it was variable and below the selected threshold. Future directives should focus on refinement of the scores, definitions, and methods of interpretation prior to validation of the JAMRIS-SIJ through the assessment of its measurement properties.

Background:Preliminary definitions for SIJ lesions in the OMERACT Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Magnetic Resonance Imaging score has been reported1. Investigators identified the need to revise the JAMRIS-SIJ item definitions.Objectives:To update the JAMRIS-SIJ definitions and scoring method.Methods:The OMERACT JAMRI working group was convened to discuss the performance of the score in a reliability exercise using 30 patients. Twenty investigators (12 radiologists, 8 rheumatologists) decided which definitions and scoring methods to be revised, retained or added.Results:The revised JAMRI-SIJ is in the Table 1.Table 1.Revised OMERACT JAMRIS-SIJ.ComponentDefinitionSegmentation/sliceScore range/sliceBone Marrow Edema (BME)An ill-defined area of high bone marrow signal intensity within the subchondral bone in the ilium or sacrum on fluid sensitive images4 quadrants/SIJ0-8BME IntensityPresence of hyperintensity of the marrow on fluid sensitive images using the signal of the presacral veins or cerebrospinal fluid as reference1 score/SIJ0-2BME DepthContinuing increased signal on fluid sensitive images of depth ≥ 5mm/ ≥ 1cm from the articular surface using the signal of the presacral veins or cerebrospinal fluid as reference1 score/SIJ0-2OsteitisAn ill-defined area of high bone marrow signal intensity within the subchondral bone in the ilium or sacrum on contrast enhanced T1 weighted sequences4 quadrants/SIJ0-8CapsulitisIncreased signal on fluid sensitive or contrast enhanced T1 weighted sequences involving the superior portion of the SIJ capsulesuperior halves/SIJ0-2Joint space fluidHigh signal intensity equivalent to the CSF on fluid sensitive sequences within the joint space of the cartilaginous portion of the SIJhalves/SIJ0-4Joint space enhancementIncreased signal intensity on contrast enhanced T1 weighted sequences within the joint space of the cartilaginous portion of the SIJhalves/SIJ0-4Inflammation in erosion cavityIncreased signal intensity on fluid sensitive or contrast enhanced T1 weighted sequences in an erosion cavity of the cartilaginous portion of the SIJhalves/SIJ0-4EnthesitisIncreased signal intensity in bone marrow and/or adjacent soft tissue on fluid sensitive or contrast enhanced T1 weighted sequences at sites where ligaments and tendons attach to a bone excluding retroarticular enthesitisScore per case0-1Damage DomainSclerosisA substantially wider than normal area of very low bone marrow signal intensity within the subchondral bone in the ilium or sacrum on a non-fat suppressed sequence, preferably a non-fat suppressed T1 weighted sequence. This feature must also be present on all other sequences, as available4 quadrants/SIJ0-8ErosionA focal loss of the low signal of cortical bone at the osteochondral interface and adjacent marrow matrix on T1 weighted images4 quadrants/SIJ0-8Fat metaplasia lesionHomogeneous increased signal intensity within the subchondral bone marrow on T1weighted images4 quadrants/SIJ0-8BackfillA high signal on non-contrast enhanced T1 weighted sequences in a typical location for an erosion, with signal intensity greater than normal bone marrow, clearly demarcated from adjacent bone marrow by an irregular band of low signal reflecting sclerosis at the border of the original erosionhalves/SIJ0-4AnkylosisPresence of signal equivalent to regional bone marrow continuously bridging a portion of the joint space between the iliac and sacral boneshalves/SIJ0-4Statement of overarching consideration for all definitions: “[…] in comparison to physiological changes normally seen on MRI examinations of age- and sex-matched children, and visible in 2 planes wherever available.”Conclusion:Revised JAMRIS-SIJ has been developed. Validation steps are underway.References:[1]Otobo TM, et al. Preliminary Definitions for Sacroiliac Joint Pathologies in the OMERACT Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Magnetic Resonance Imaging Score (OMERACT JAMRIS-SIJ). The Journal of rheumatology. 2019;46(9):1192-7.Acknowledgements:The authors acknowledge The Hospital for SickKids Research Trainee Competition (RESTRACOMP) and Queen Elizabeth II/Edward Dunlop Foundation Scholarship In Science and Technology (QEII-GSST) at the University of Toronto for funding provided to Dr. Tarimobo M. Otobo. The authors also acknowledge Prof. Dr. Desiree van der Heijde for providing expert commentary.Disclosure of Interests:None declared

Background:Psoriatic spondyloarthritis (PsSpA) is an inflammatory arthritis related to psoriasis, whereas a large number of patients may have persistent inflammation developing gradual and in some cases extensive joint involvement of the axial skeleton.Conventional radiographs (CRs) have been used for the detection of structural damage (syndesmophyte formation, paravertebral ossification, sacroiliitis, ankyloses and erosions), facilitating as an important measure of efficacy of various therapies. However overlapping of anatomic structures of pelvis and spine as well as limited capabilities to visualize soft tissue have led to the development of newer imaging technologies (1). Multidetector CT technology (MDCT), it is now possible to perform low dose CT (ldCT) of the entire vertebral column, viewed in multiple planes and without overprojection with a low radiation dose. (2) Still, the capabilities of ldCT algorithms in the diagnosis and progression of PsSpA has not been fully explored.Objectives:The aim of this study is to examine the effect of “iDose5” iterative reconstruction algorithm on radiation dose, diagnostic capabilities and image quality in spine-pelvis (S-P) CT scanning compared with CRs, in detection of findings suggestive of PsSpA.Methods:Thirty-nine patients with PsSpA (26 females and 13 males, age range: 23 to 70 years old) were prospectively studied with “iDose5” CT of spine and pelvis on a 64-row MDCT scanner. Multiplannar reformats followed. All patients satisfied the Psoriatic Arthritis (CASPAR) classification criteria and had undergone standard AP and lateral CRs of the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine and AP radiographs of the pelvis within one months of the iDose CT. Twenty-five patients underwent, additional MR imaging (MRI) of the same anatomic areas. Written consent was obtained from all patients. Two musculoskeletal radiologists read and scored CT scans and CRs in consensus, according to the PASRI criteria and the CTSS score. CT image quality and effective dose for CT and radiographs were assessed.All data were analyzed using SPSS 24.0 statistical software.Results:CT revealed erosions and ankyloses of the sacroiliac joints, fusion of the posterior elements of vertebra especially in the thoracic spine, enthesophytes, not seen with CRs, in 26 patients (pLevel of diagnostic confidence was higher when interpreting CT compared to CRs, in cases of erosions and ankyloses, in 35 patients (pEffective dose for “i-Dose 5” CT was 1.20 ± 0.26 mSv and for CR =1.07 ± 0.21 mSv. The difference was not statistically significant (p=0.588).Conclusion:iDose CT of spine and pelvis at an effective dose, lower than previously published, seems to perform better than radiographs in the detection of structural changes of PsSpA. Further studies are needed to document the capabilities of iDose CT for the imaging assessment of PsSpA in daily clinical practice.References:[1]Baraliakos Χ, et al (2009)The Natural Course of Radiographic Progression in Ankylosing Spondylitis — Evidence for Major Individual Variations in a Large Proportion of Patients The Journal of Rheumatology May, 36 (5) 997-1002[2]de Koning A et, al (2018) Low-dose CT detects more progression of bone formation in comparison to conventional radiography in patients with ankylosing spondylitis: results from the SIAS cohort. Ann Rheum Dis.;77(2):293-299.Disclosure of Interests:None declared

Imaging has a pivotal role in the detection and characterization of spine bone tumors (SBTs), especially using magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and computed tomography (CT). Although MR performed with conventional pulse sequences has a robust reliability in the assessment of SBTs, some imaging features of benign lesions and malignancies overlap, making the differential diagnosis challenging. Several imaging tools are now available to perform a correct interpretation of images of SBTs including diffusion-weighted imaging, dynamic contrast-enhanced MR, Dixon sequences, and dual-energy CT. Nevertheless, strengths and weaknesses of imaging modalities should be kept in mind, and it is crucial to be aware of the pitfalls that can be encountered in daily clinical practice when dealing with these lesions. This review provides an overview on the main challenges encountered when dealing with SBTs, providing some tricks of the trade to avoid possible diagnostic traps.

Background The cerebellum has a crucial role in mood regulation. While cerebellar grey matter (GM) alterations have been previously reported in bipolar disorder (BD), cerebro-cerebellar white matter (WM) connectivity alterations and cerebellar GM profiles have not been characterised in the context of predominant polarity (PP) and onset polarity (OP) subphenotypes of BD patients which is the aim of the present study. Methods Forty-two euthymic BD patients stratified for PP and OP and 42 healthy controls (HC) were included in this quantitative neuroimaging study to evaluate cerebellar GM patterns and cerebro-cerebellar WM connections. Diffusion tensor tractography was used to characterise afferent and efferent cerebro-cerebellar tract integrity. False discovery rate corrections were applied in post-hoc comparisons. Results BD patients exhibited higher fractional anisotropy (FA) in fronto-ponto-cerebellar tracts bilaterally compared to HC. Subphenotype-specific FA profiles were identified within the BD cohort. Regarding PP subgroups, we found FA changes in a) left contralateral fronto-ponto-cerebellar tract (depressive-PP > HC) and b) contralateral/ipsilateral fronto-ponto-cerebellar tracts bilaterally (manic-PP > HC). Regarding OP subgroups, we observed FA changes in a) left/right contralateral fronto-ponto-cerebellar tracts (depressive-OP > HC) and b) all fronto-ponto-cerebellar, most parieto-ponto-cerebellar and right contralateral occipito-ponto-cerebellar tracts (manic-OP>HC). In general, greater and more widespread cerebro-cerebellar changes were observed in manic-OP patients than in depressive-OP patients compared to HC. Manic-OP showed higher FA compared to depressive-OP patients in several afferent WM tracts. No GM differences were identified between BD and HC and across BD subgroups. Conclusions Our findings highlight fronto-ponto-cerebellar connectivity alterations in euthymic BD. Polarity-related subphenotypes have distinctive cerebro-cerebellar WM signatures with potential clinical and pathobiological implications.

“Large airway diseases” is being used as an all-encompassing phrase to describe a broad spectrum of pathological entities, which involves the trachea, main, lobar, and segmental bronchi of up to 3 mm diameter. Imaging modalities such as radiography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging contribute to the identification and diagnosis of each entity. Knowledge of clinical information, normal cross-sectional anatomy, and imaging characteristics of large airway diseases is necessary for appropriate radiologic evaluation. This review provides information about congenital and acquired diseases of the large airways in the pediatric population.

Benign bone tumors are rare but are more common than primary malignant bone tumors. The early accurate diagnosis and reliable differentiation of these rare benign tumors and tumor mimickers from the even rarer malignant tumors with subsequent appropriate treatment or watchful waiting is crucial for the clinical outcome. Bone tumors are often a source of diagnostic and therapeutic uncertainty. Thus this European Society of Musculoskeletal Radiology consensus document is intended to help radiologists in their decision making and support discussion among clinicians who deal with patients with suspected or proven bone tumors. Evaluating these tumors starts with a patient history and physical examination. Radiography is the principal imaging modality and often can reliably diagnose a benign bone tumor by providing information about localization, matrix, aggressiveness, size, and (potential) multiplicity. In a significant number of cases, additional imaging is not necessary. Potentially malignant entities recognized by radiography should be referred for magnetic resonance imaging, which also serves as a preoperative local staging modality, with specific technical requirements. Indeterminate tumors, or tumors in which therapy depends on histology results, should be biopsied. For biopsy, we strongly recommend referral to a specialist regional sarcoma treatment center (RSTC), where a multidisciplinary tumor team, including a specialist pathologist, radiologist, and sarcoma surgeon, are involved. Additional staging modalities are entity specific and should be performed according to the recommendations of the RSTC.

Splenomegaly and splenic siderosis are well-known findings in beta-thalassemia major. We explored the relation between splenic size, splenic and hepatic siderosis in transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemic patients, assessed by MR imaging. Abdominal MR imaging studies of 47 consecutive thalassemic patients and 10 healthy subjects, used as controls, were retrospectively reviewed. The signal intensity ratios of spleen and liver to the right paraspinous muscle (S/M, L/M, respectively) were calculated on T1, intermediate, and T2*-weighted gradient-echo sequences, splenic volume was estimated on axial images and serum ferritin levels were recorded. Decreased S/M on all MR sequences was displayed in 36 patients. Six patients presented with normal S/M on all MR sequences and 5 patients displayed splenic hypointensity only on T2* sequence. No correlation between S/M and L/M was found whereas both L/M and S/M correlated with serum ferritin (P

Excessive lordosis is a common finding and may produce mechanical pressure that causes repetitive strains of the interspinous ligament with subsequent degeneration and collapse. Baastrup’s disease (kissing spine syndrome) is a term referring to close approximation of adjacent spinous processes due to degenerative changes of the spine. Baastrup’s disease usually affects the lumbar spine, with L4-L5 being the most commonly affected level. There is higher occurrence at ages over 70 and no gender predilection. Symptoms include back pain with midline distribution that worsens during extension, is relieved during flexion and is exaggerated upon finger pressure at the level of interest. Diagnosis rests on clinical examination and imaging studies. The hallmark of imaging findings is the close approximation and contact of adjacent spinous processes, with all the subsequent findings including oedema, cystic lesions, sclerosis, flattening and enlargement of the articulating surfaces, bursitis and occasionally epidural cysts or midline epidural fibrotic masses. Proposed therapies include conservative treatment, percutaneous infiltrations or surgical therapies such as excision of the bursa or osteotomy. The purpose of this study is to illustrate the spectrum of imaging findings in Baastrup’s disease and to emphasise upon including the syndrome in the list of potential causes of low-back pain. Teaching Points • Baastrup’s disease refers to close approximation of adjacent spinous processes. • Diagnosis of Baastrup’s disease is verified with clinical examination and imaging studies. • Contact of adjacent spinous processes results in oedema, sclerosis, flattening and enlargement. • Proposed therapies include conservative treatment, percutaneous infiltrations or surgical therapies.

Bisphosphonates are employed with increasing frequency in various pediatric disorders, mainly associated with osteoporosis. After cessation of bisphosphonate treatment in children, skeletal radiologic changes have been documented including dense metaphyseal lines of the long bones and “bone in bone” appearance of the vertebrae. However, the evolution of these radiographic changes has not been fully explored. We describe the MR imaging appearance of the spine that, to our knowledge, has not been previously addressed in a child with idiopathic juvenile osteoporosis who had received bisphosphonates and emphasize the evolution of the radiographic findings of the spine and pelvis over a four-year period.

Objective: In the embryonic period, several developmental anomalies of the posterior cerebral circulation might occur. Digital subtractive angiography used to be the imaging technique of choice for the illustration of such variations. Nowadays, the development of MR imaging has led to a new entry in the diagnostic archer’s quivery, the MR an- giography, with which most of these variations may be diagnosed. Purpose of this study is to illustrate these anatomic variants, their incidence and their potential clinical significance. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 282 MR angiographies performed in our institution, in order to assess the posterior cerebral circulation. The imaging findings (including both normal development and variations) were depicted. Results: In our study 61/282 (21.63%) MR angiographies were positive for imaging findings concerning variations of the vertebrobasilar system. These variations included abnormal origin of the vertebral artery (0.7%), unilateral aplasia or hypoplasia (8.86%), unilateral aplasia or hypoplasia of the distal part of the vertebral artery (3.85%), and unilateral or bilateral fetal posterior cerebral artery (7.7%). These results show that anatomic variations of the posterior cerebral circulation are not very uncommon in the population. Conclusion: High resolution Magnetic Resonance Angiography provides excellent interpretation of the vertebral arteries, allowing depiction of all anatomic variations. Knowing these anatomic variations is important, espe- cially for clinicians and patients planning a surgical operation or an interventional radiology technique. Furthermore, it contributes to avoiding potential diagnostic pitfalls or to explaining unusual acute vascular cerebral events.

Purpose To assess the performance and results of R2 relaxometry using a fat-suppressed (FS) multiecho sequence and compare these to conventional R2 relaxometry in estimating tissue iron overload. Materials and Methods Relaxation rate values (R2=1/T2) of the liver, spleen, pancreas and vertebral bone marrow (VBM) were estimated in 21 patients with β-thalassemia major, using a respiratory-triggered 16-echo Carr-Purcell-Meiboom-Gill (CPMG) spin-echo sequence before (R2) and after (R2 FS) the application of chemically selective fat suppression. Results Hepatic and splenic R2 FS values correlated with respective R2 values (r=0.98 and r=0.96, P Conclusion Application of fat suppression in the standard CPMG sequence improved the capability of MRI in noninvasive quantification of iron, particularly in lipid-rich tissues, such as vertebral bone marrow (VBM) and pancreas.

The aim of the study was to estimate the frequency of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC)-type lesions in children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by means of magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), and to investigate the association between a series of easily applicable data on the one hand and the presentation of such lesions at MRCP on the other hand.Collected demographic, laboratory, and magnetic resonance enterography data from the records of 73 children with IBD were cross-sectionally related to the MRCP-based diagnosis.Around the time of MRCP, the distribution of IBD subtypes was 64.4%, 24.7%, and 11% for Crohn disease, indeterminate colitis, and ulcerative colitis, respectively. A total of 11 patients (15.1%) were identified with PSC-type lesions. Demographic and magnetic resonance enterography data were unrelated to the MRCP outcome. Biochemical abnormalities were of low prevalence (50%) among patients with PSC. The abnormality prevalences of aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, and γ-glutamyl transferase were significantly higher in the PSC group, both at initial diagnosis of IBD and at the time of MRCP. Less-consistent results were documented for bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase, especially at initial diagnosis of IBD.The abnormality prevalences of aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, and γ-glutamyl transferase were significantly higher in the PSC group. Nevertheless, PSC-type lesions frequently occur in pediatric IBD, even if the biochemical profile is hardly indicative of this probability.

To illustrate quantitative discomanometry's (QD) diagnostic efficacy and predictive value in discogenic-pain evaluation in a prospective study correlating intradiscal pressure values with pain reduction after percutaneous image-guided technique (i.e., percutaneous decompression, PD).During the last 3 years, 36 patients [21 male and 15 female (mean age 36 ± 5.8 years)] with intervertebral disc hernia underwent QD before PD. Under absolute sterilization and fluoroscopy, a mixture of contrast medium and normal saline (3:1 ratio) was injected. A discmonitor performed a constant rate injection and recorded pressure and volume values, thus producing the relative pressure-volume curve. PD was then performed. Pain reduction and improved mobility were recorded at 3, 12, and 24 months after PD using clinical evaluation and a numeric visual scale (NVS; 0 to 10 units).Mean pain values of 7.5 ± 1.9 (range 4 to 8) NVS units were recorded before PD; these decreased to 2.9 ± 2.44 at 3 months, 1.0 ± 1.9 at 12 months, and 1.0 ± 1.9 NVS units at 24 months after PD. Recorded correlations (pressure, volume, significant pain-reduction values) with bilateral statistical significance included a maximum injected volume of 2.4 ml (p = 0.045), P (o)14 psi [initial pressure required to inject 0.1 ml of the mixture inside the disc (p = 0.05)], P (max) ≤ 65 psi [greatest pressure value on the curve (p = 0.018)], and P (max) - P (o) ≤ 47 psi (p = 0.038). Patients meeting these pressure or volume cut-off points, either independently or as a total, had significant pain reduction (4 NVS units) after PD. No complications were noted.QD is an efficient technique that may have predictive value for discogenic pain evaluation. It might serve as a useful tool for patient selection for intervertebral disc therapies.

Purpose To investigate the correlation between the degree of hepatic, splenic, pancreatic, vertebral bone marrow (VBM), and myocardial siderosis, as expressed by relaxation rate (R2 = 1/T2) values, in patients with thalassemia. Materials and Methods R2 relaxation rate values of liver, spleen, VBM, pancreas, and myocardium were estimated in 68 consecutive transfusion-dependent patients with β-thalassemia major and 10 healthy controls using a respiratory triggered 16-echo Carr-Purcell-Meiboom-Gill (CPMG) spin echo sequence. Results Hepatic R2 values were significantly increased in all 68 patients; VBM, pancreatic, and myocardial R2 values were increased in 67/68, 35/47, and 47/61 patients, whereas five patients showed decreased pancreatic R2 attributed to fatty degeneration. Of the 39 nonsplenectomized patients, splenic R2 values were decreased in 30 and normal in nine patients. Hepatic R2 values correlated with splenic (r = 0.63, P < 0.001), VBM (r = 0.52, P < 0.001), but not with myocardial and pancreatic R2 values. Conclusion Despite positive correlations between the degree of hepatic, splenic, and VBM siderosis, as expressed by respective R2 values, there was variability of iron distribution patterns in thalassemic patients. Unpredictable patterns of iron distribution may be seen, such as normal signal of the spleen in the presence of siderotic liver, resembling primary hemochromatosis. Fatty degeneration of the pancreas was not uncommon. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;29:853–859. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Young, normotensive, and non-obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may present abnormal hemodynamic alterations (HA). The purpose of this study was to investigate heart rate (HR), intima-media thickness (IMT), and diameter (DCCA) in the common carotid arteries (CCA), flow velocities, and resistance index in both extracranial carotid and vertebral arteries (VA), in the abdominal aorta (AO) and in the renal arteries (RA) in PCOS women and matched controls. This was a case-control study conducted at a tertiary University Hospital. We studied 53 PCOS women and 53 healthy matched volunteers as controls. The previously reported parameters were assessed using color Doppler ultrasonography. HR, IMT in the CCA, and peak systolic velocity in all examined arteries were significantly increased in PCOS women compared to controls. On the contrary, DCCA was significantly decreased in PCOS women compared to controls. End diastolic velocity (EDV) in both VA and RA, in the AO and in the left extracranial carotid system was significantly increased in the PCOS group compared to controls. Furthermore, the peripheral resistance (PR) of AO and right external carotid artery was also found to be increased while in both RA and in left VA, PR was decreased. No further statistical significant HA in EDV and PR were noted. The results of this study provide evidence for a mild hyperdynamic circulation in young, normotensive, non-obese women with PCOS compared to controls, indicating a mild sympathetic activation at an early age, which may be an underlying cause of hypertension and cardiovascular risk.

This work demonstrates the use of a fast and precise methodology for evaluating myocardial and liver iron status in multitransfused thalassemic patients by means of a fast T(2) (*) quantitative MRI (T(2) (*)qMRI) technique. Myocardial and liver T(2) (*) values were calculated in 48 thalassemic patients and 21 normal subjects on a 1.5T MRI system using a breath-hold 2D single-slice multiecho gradient-echo (MEGRE) sequence (16 echoes, TR/TE1/TE16/FA = 160/2.7/37.65 ms/25 degrees ). No ECG gating was used. Myocardial T(2) (*), liver T(2) (*), and myocardial to muscle (CR/MS) and liver to muscle (LV/MS) T(2) (*) ratios were correlated with serum ferritin concentration (SFC) levels for all patients. Significant differences in myocardial and liver mean T(2) (*), CR/MS, and LV/MS T(2) (*) values between patients and normal subjects were found (P < 0.0005). Differences in paraspinous muscle mean T(2) (*) values between patients and normal subjects were not significant. Myocardial T(2) (*) and CR/MS T(2) (*) values were not correlated with SFC levels. Liver T(2) (*) and LV/MS T(2) (*) values were significantly correlated with SFC (r = 0.540, P < 0.0005). Myocardial T(2) (*) and CR/MS T(2) (*) values were not correlated with either liver T(2) (*) or LV/MS T(2) (*) values, respectively. We conclude that myocardial and liver iron deposition can be evaluated using the fast non-ECG-gated T(2) (*)qMRI technique.

The study aims at describing the MR features of pancreas in beta-thalassemia major, investigating the relations between MR findings and glucose disturbances and between hepatic and pancreatic siderosis. Signal intensity ratios of the pancreas and liver to right paraspinous muscle (P/M, L/M) were retrospectively assessed on abdominal MR imaging studies of 31 transfusion-dependent patients with beta-thalassemia major undergoing quantification of hepatic siderosis and 10 healthy controls, using T1- (120/4/90), intermediate in and out of phase - (120/2.7, 4/20), and T2*-(120/15/20) weighted GRE sequences. Using the signal drop of the liver and pancreas on opposed phase images, we recorded serum ferritin and results of oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Decreased L/M and P/M on at least the T2* sequence were noticed in 31/31 and 30/31 patients, respectively, but no correlation between P/M and L/M was found. Patients with pathologic OGTT displayed a higher degree of hepatic siderosis (p < 0.04) and signal drop of pancreas on opposed phase imaging (p < 0.025), implying fatty replacement of pancreas. P/M was neither correlated with glucose disturbances nor serum ferritin. Iron deposition in the pancreas cannot be predicted by the degree of hepatic siderosis in beta-thalassemia major. Fatty replacement of the pancreas is common and may be associated with glucose disturbances.

To measure lumbar spine T2*, T2, T2' and T1 MR relaxometry parameters and compare them with lumbar spine bone mineral density (BMD) in a group of postmenopausal women.Lumbar spine T2*, T2, T2' and T1 MR relaxometry parameters and BMD values were assessed in 101 postmenopausal women (mean age: 61.8 +/- 7.1 (1 S.D.) years); of them 63 referred to as control subjects (group A, BMD T-scoresor = -2.5 S.D.) and 38 as osteoporotic (group B, BMD T-scores-2.5 S.D.). All magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations were performed on an 1.5 T imaging system using: (a) a 2D single slice multi echo (32 echoes) gradient echo (MEGRE) sequence (TR/TE1/TE32/FA: 160/2.7/74.93 ms/25 degrees for the T2* measurement, (b) a respiratory gated 2D single slice Multi Echo (16 echoes) Spin Echo (MESE) sequence (TR/TE1/TE16/FA: 2000-2500/22.5/360 ms/90 degrees) for the T2 measurement and (c) a 2D single slice multi TI (18 repeats) turbo Fast Low Angle Shot (turbo FLASH) sequence (TR/TE/TI1/TI16/FA: 11/4.2/10/5000 ms/10 degrees) for the T1 measurement. T2' was calculated from its definition equation: (1/T2' = 1/T2* - 1/T2). Lumbar spine BMD was assessed using DXA.All measured parameters showed statistically significant differences between groups A and B (from P0.05 to0.001). All parameters showed significant associations with subject's age ranging from r = 0.245 (P0.05) for the T2 up to r = 0.377 (P0.001) for the T2*. All parameters showed significant associations with subject's BMD measurements ranging from r = -0.184 (P0.05) for the R1 = (1/T1) up to r = -0.345 (P0.0005) for the T2.Among the MR relaxometry parameters studied, T2* and T2 showed better discrimination of patients with osteoporosis from control subjects.

To determine the prevalence, distribution, and location of intervertebral disk calcification (IDC) in the thoracic and lumbar spine and the association of IDC with radiographically evident spinal degenerative changes in cadavers.Anterior vertebral columns comprising T1 through L5 were removed from 223 cadavers (183 men, 40 women; mean age at death, 67 years; range, 37-94 years). Approximately 5-mm-thick parasagittal sections were investigated with high-contrast radiography. The presence of IDC, osteophytes, vertebral endplate abnormalities, and vacuum phenomena was recorded, and the height of disk space was measured at 3,568 intervertebral levels. Logistic regression analysis was performed.IDC was identified in 178 (80%) of the 223 cadavers. Of 3,568 disks, 459 (13%) had IDC, and 289 cases (63%) were located in the annulus fibrosus. IDC was most common in the lower thoracic spine, occurring in 275 (60%) of 459 disks. IDC occurred in 159 (87%) of 183 men and 19 (48%) of 40 women. Logistic regression analysis was adjusted for age, and results showed that the frequency of IDC was significantly higher in men in upper, middle, and lower segments of the thoracic spine (P.05) but not in the lumbar spine (P =.09). IDC correlated with increasing age (P.001) and disk space loss (P.001) at all spinal levels. There was no association of IDC with vacuum phenomena or vertebral endplate abnormalities at any spinal level.IDC is common in elderly persons, especially in the annulus fibrosus and lower thoracic spine. The prevalence of IDC increases with age and extent of disk space loss.

Purpose. In this study, the early and midterm clinical and radiological results of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery with or without the use of platelet rich plasma (PRP) focusing on the tunnel-widening phenomenon are evaluated.Methods. This is a double blind, prospective randomized study. 51 patients have completed the assigned protocol. Recruited individuals were divided into two groups: a group with and a group without the use of PRPs. Patients were assessed on the basis of MRI scans, which were performed early postoperatively and repeated at least one-year postoperatively. The diameter was measured at the entrance, at the bottom, and at the mid distance of the femoral tunnel.Results. Our study confirmed the existence of tunnel widening as a phenomenon. The morphology of the dilated tunnels was conical in both groups. There was a statistical significant difference in the mid distance of the tunnels between the two groups. This finding may support the role of a biologic response secondary to mechanical triggers.Conclusions. The use of RPRs in ACL reconstruction surgery remains a safe option that could potentially eliminate the biologic triggers of tunnel enlargement. The role of mechanical factors, however, remains important.

Purpose: To assess the frequency of high-resolution and color Doppler sonographic findings in the most common diseases of childhood manifested with cervical lymphadenopathy at initial presentation. Material and Methods: High-resolution and color Doppler US were performed in 103 and 43 children respectively, with cervical lymphadenopathy at initial presentation. Sonomorphology and intranodal vascularity were assessed. Final diagnoses, based on biopsy or clinical and sonographic follow-up, included: Reactive hyperplasia (n=34), infectious mononucleosis (n=20), lymphoma (n=11), bacterial (n=28), tuberculous (n=5) and cat-scratch disease (CSD, n=5) lymphadenites. Results: Round shape (L/S2. Wide hilum conforming to nodal shape characterized reactive hyperplasia (94%) and infectious mononucleosis whereas absent or narrow hilum was frequent in lymphoma (100%) and bacterial lymphadenitis (60%). Central irregular hyperechogenic areas, blurred margins and central necrosis were most frequent in bacterial, tuberculous and CSD lymphadenites. On color Doppler US, hyperplastic nodes more frequently exhibited a solitary hilar vessel (48%), whereas infectious mononucleosis nodes had a central radial pattern (75%). Bacterial lymphadenitis presented with a variety of vascular patterns. Conclusion: Although individual sonographic signs are not specific, the categorization and combination of findings might be highly suggestive of diagnosis of the underlying disease presenting with cervical lymphadenopathy.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate by CT the usefulness of the non-distension of the stomach in determining invasion of the gastric cancer into perigastric space and adjacent organs. Forty-eight patients with pathologically proved gastric cancer were studied by conventional CT. Patients were examined using two techniques: (a) non-distension of the stomach in the supine position and 34 patients additionally in prone position; and (b) distension of the stomach with water or air in the supine and/or prone position. CT findings by both techniques were separately analysed preoperatively and compared to surgical findings. Invasion of perigastric fat was better demonstrated by the non-distension technique in 15 of the 36 patients with pathologically proven fat infiltration. Non-distension technique was more accurate than distension in detecting: (a) involvement of gastric ligaments (80 versus 67% for gastrohepatic, 85 versus 73% for gastrocolic and 80% by both techniques for gastrosplenic ligament); (b) perigastric lymphadenopathy (86% by both techniques for lymph nodes sited at the gastrohepatic ligament, 85 versus 75% for gastrocolic and 85 versus 80% for gastrosplenic ligament lymph nodes, respectively); and (c) pancreatic invasion (86 versus 80%). The prone position with non-distended stomach was particularly helpful in excluding pancreatic invasion in five patients with carcinoma of the gastric body. The distension technique was more accurate in demonstrating perigastric extension in gastroesophageal junction tumors in two patients. In conclusion, additional CT of the non-distended stomach with the patient in prone position can provide further evidence about infiltration of the perigastric fat, ligaments, lymph nodes and pancreas, in patients with gastric carcinoma, with the exception of gastroesophageal junction tumors.

Introduction Multiple myeloma (MM) is a hematological malignancy, theactivity of which is not clear yet. Skeletal survey and computed tomography are two commonly used imaging techniques for the detection of myeloma lesions. Purpose The aim of this study is to compare the effective doses received by patients suspected for MM who were simultaneously evaluated with radiographs and whole body CT (WBCT) scan. Materials and methods Patients underwent a conventional radiography (CR) and a computed tomography (CT). Concerning CR, seventeen views of human body were obtained for 10 patients and the effective dose (ED) was then estimatedutilizing the dose area product (DAP)-to-ED conversion coefficients reported in NRPB-R262 (whole body except for extremities) and NRPB-W4 (for extremities). Forthe CT examinations, the acquisition and dosimetric data of 53 patients undergone WBCT either withfiltered back-projection (FBP) or iterative reconstruction (iDose, Philips) algorithm were retrospectively recorded and ED was estimated by utilizing sex- and age- specific DLP-to-ED conversion factors available in literature. Results The ED of the patients underwent WBCT were2.33 ± 1.14 mSv and 7.06 ± 6.16 mSv for iDoseand FBP protocols, respectively while the corresponding ED from the CR procedures were 2.12 ± 0.80 mSv. Conclusion Low radiation exposure, almost equal to that of CR, can be achieved with the CT scan when iterative reconstruction algorithm is implemented in the acquisition data.

Purpose: To correlate hepatic 1 T2 values obtained by means of a T2-Quantitative MRI (T2-QMRI) technique with three widely applied methods for the evaluation of hemosiderosis, i.e., (a) liver iron concentration (LFeC) (b) serum ferritin (SF), and (c) histologic grading of siderosis. The impact of coexisting hepatitis was also considered. T2-QMRI measurements were compared with signal intensity (SI) ratio measurements on conventional SE images. Materials and methods: Liver T2 relaxation times were calculated in 40 thalassemic patients, on an 0.5 T magnetic resonance imaging system using a multiple spin-echo sequence with parameters: TR = 2500 ms, TE = 12 ms in 20 symmetrically repeatable echoes. Results: (a) 1 T2 values were well correlated (r = 0.97) with liver iron concentration, which ranged from 2.32 to 18.0 mg/g dry weight (normal 1 T2 values were also correlated with serum ferritin levels (r = 0.84). At various 1 T2 values, serum ferritin levels were higher for the anti-HCV(+) patients than the anti-HCV(−) ones. (c) T2 values corresponding to successive grades of siderosis presented statistically significant differences. (d) SI ratio measurements assigned less statistically significant results, as compared to T2 values. Conclusion: T2-QMRI measurement of T2 relaxation time is more accurate than SI ratios in evaluating liver iron overload. It is particularly useful for hemosiderotic patients with coexisting hepatitis since, in this case, serum ferritin is not considered a reliable index of hemosiderosis.

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may have increased cortical bone mineral density (BMD) and probably higher bone material quality as well as better resistance in the compression strength of the tibia, measured by peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT), in comparison with that of age-matched healthy subjects.Thirty women with PCOS, (15 lean and 15 obese) and 15 age-matched healthy controls were enrolled in this study. The clinical, biochemical and ultrasound characteristics of the two groups were evaluated. Using pQCT, the following parameters were measured: volumetric cortical density (CBD) and volumetric trabecular density (TBD) BMD, total bone cross-sectional area (ToA), cortical area (CoA), cortical thickness (CRT-THK-C) and finally the strength-strain index (SSI).The geometrical parameters (CoA, ToA, CRT-THK-C), the SSI as well as the TBD were increased in the PCOS women; however, these differences did not achieve statistical significance between lean PCOS women, obese PCOS women, and controls. Conversely, CBD was significantly higher in PCOS women compared with controls (P0.000) and furthermore in lean PCOS women compared with obese ones (P0.01040).The PCOS women of our study seem to have a higher quality of bone material in the distal tibia and probably a better resistance of bone in the compression strength without alterations in bone mass and geometry (especially the lean PCOS women), indicating that our oligomenorrheic and hyperandrogonemic PCOS women may be protected from the development of osteoporosis and fracture risk later in life.

Metachondromatosis is a rare, inherited disease that was described in 1971 by Maroteaux1. He chose the name metachondromatosis to emphasize the evolving or changing nature of the chondromatous lesions1-5. The complete form of the disease is characterized by multiple metaphyseal juxtaepiphyseal exostoses, metaphyseal enchondromas, periarticular calcifications, and frequent unilateral or bilateral Legg-Calve-Perthes-like changes in the femoral head, resembling osteonecrosis1-3,6-8. The metachondromatosis-associated exostoses are true osteochondromas with cartilaginous caps and characteristically point toward the adjacent joint, often involve the bones of the hands and feet, and do not produce shortening or growth disturbance of the affected bone8. The periarticular calcifications are due to peripheral enchondral ossification in epiphysis-based exophytic enchondromas. The enchondromatous lesions, unlike those of multiple enchondromatosis, most often affect the iliac crests and the metaphyses of certain long bones, showing similar radiographic irregularities. Metachondromatosis-associated enchondromas may appear as metaphyseal enchondromas6,9, have a periarticular flowery appearance3,6,9, or be similar to lesions seen in lytic metastatic disease3,8. The reported locations of these lesions include the iliac crest, proximal and distal end of the femur, proximal part of the fibula, distal end of the tibia, distal aspect of the radius, proximal part of the humerus, and hands and feet4,6,8,9. The disorder has not been mapped in the human genome. The mode of inheritance is autosomal dominant1-3,6,8. Clinical features of metachondromatosis include firm, nontender nodules adjacent to joints in the hands and feet, less frequently at the site of large joints, appearing during the first decade of life6. A common complication is nerve compression that …

Miliary hepatic involvement is a frequent finding on autopsy in patients with disseminated tuberculosis. Imaging studies may reveal hepatosplenomegaly and/or parenchymal inhomogeneity and, in a minority of cases, focal lesions, invariably associated with miliary lung disease. An unusual case of disseminated tuberculosis with manifestations of miliary hepatic involvement, abdominal and neck lymphadenopathy on US and CT without any evidence of active disease in the lungs, spleen or other organ, is described.

Arthropathy is considered as an irreversible and progressive complication in patients with haemophilia, even in children on prophylaxis. To estimate the progression of haemophilic arthropathy, 85 joints of 24 boys with severe (n = 18) and moderate (n = 6) haemophilia (A: 22, B: 2) were investigated with clinical examination, X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at two time periods (time 0 and 1). Patients' age at time 0 was 10.5 +/- 3.6 years and time elapsed to time 1 was 3.8 +/- 1.4 years. At time 0: all investigated joints had more than three bleeds. Sixteen boys were on secondary prophylaxis for 5.4 +/- 2.8 years. Clinical score (a modification of World Federation of Haemophilia's scale): 2.0 +/- 3.6, X-ray score (Pettersson): 2.1 +/- 2.8, MRI score (Denver): 4.5 +/- 3.8. After the first evaluation, prophylaxis was intensified in 11 children and initiated in four. At time 1: clinical score: 1.5 +/- 3.1, X-ray: 1.7 +/- 2.7, MRI score: 5.1 +/- 4.1. On average, the clinical and X-ray scores showed a significant improvement (26% and 40% of the joints respectively, P < 0.01) and the number of haemarthroses evidenced a threefold reduction from time 0 to 1 (P < 0.01), findings that could be associated with the modification of prophylaxis after time 0. MRI findings showed deterioration in 34% of the joints. Conversely, 14 joints (16.5%) with mild or moderate synovitis without cartilage degradation at time 0 showed an improvement at time 1. The information carried by the three scales could be divided into information shared by the three scores and information specific to each score, thus giving a more complete picture of joint damage caused by bleedings.

Examinations using ionizing radiation are frequently used in the evaluation of disease activity in children affected by idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). To develop an MR imaging protocol without the need for fluoroscopic insertion of an enteral tube and to assess the disease activity in children with IBD. Included in the study were 37 children (22 girls and 15 boys; age range 7–15 years, mean 11.67 years) with IBD who underwent MR imaging of the small bowel. Of these 37 children, 32 had Crohn disease and 5 had indeterminate colitis. A water solution containing herbal fibres was administered orally or through a nasogastric tube. Patients were imaged on a 1.5-T MR scanner with T1-weighted and Τ2-weighted sequences followed by a dynamic study using 3-D T1-W images after intravenous administration of gadolinium. The percentage enhancement of the bowel wall was significantly increased in patients with abnormal C-reactive protein (CRP) values compared to patients with CRP values in the normal range (P

We aimed to carry out a systematic assessment of gray-scale and color Doppler ultrasonography (CDUS) findings of reactivated post-traumatic/postoperative chronic osteomyelitis (COM) in adults.Gray-scale and color Doppler ultrasonography were performed on 40 consecutive patients with a history of long-standing post-traumatic/post-operative chronic osteomyelitis and clinical suggestion of reactivation, in a 32-month-period. All patients had metallic implants: 16 internal fixations, nine external fixations, 11 hip arthroplasties and four knee arthroplasties. The final diagnosis of reactivated COM was based upon biopsy findings, with microbiological and histological examination (n = 27), or a combination of laboratory, clinical and magnetic resonance (MR) findings (n = 13). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of sonographic signs, including fistulous tracts, periosteal thickening, cortical discontinuity, soft tissue abscess and cellulitis, juxtacortical fluid, distension of the pseudocapsule in arthroplasties, and periosteal vascularity, were estimated.Statistically significant differences between patients with and without reactivated COM were found for fistulous tracts (P0.0001), juxtacortical fluid collections (P0.001) periosteal thickening (P0.01), distension of pseudocapsule (P0.05), and periosteal vascularity (P0.0001). Low-resistance arterial flow of periosteal vessels presented the highest sensitivity (92%), specificity, and PPV (100%), yielding only two false negative results in two obese patients. Among gray-scale findings, the presence of a fistulous tract yielded the highest specificity and PPV (100%), whereas periosteal thickening was the most sensitive (92%), though not specific, finding (specificity 50%).A constellation of gray-scale and CDUS findings can be highly indicative of reactivated bone infection in patients with long-standing chronic post-traumatic/post-operative osteomyelitis.

During the Summer Olympics in 2004 the most frequent musculoskeletal injuries consisted of muscle strains, mainly of biceps femoris, gastrocnemius, adductors and rectus femoris, stress fractures (located mainly in the tibia, navicular bone and metatarsals) and knee injuries including isolated meniscal tears, ACL ruptures followed by more complex ligamentous injuries. Subtle muscle strains could be depicted by ultrasound whereas MRI was more accurate in identifying the extent of a more severe injury. The most common injuries at the ankle joint were lateral ligamentous injuries often combined with impingement, tendinosis of the Achilles tendon and plantar fasciitis, or tears, and stress fractures of the navicular bone and metatarsals. At the shoulder, rotator cuff tears and/or instability lesions were most frequent. Lower back complaints were frequent and stress injuries of the pars interarticularis were not uncommon.

This study aimed at describing the magnetic resonance (MR) imaging features of the adrenal glands in beta-thalassemic patients and at investigating the relation between adrenal and hepatic siderosis. Adrenal signal intensity (SI) was retrospectively assessed on abdominal MR studies of 35 patients with beta-thalassemia major undergoing quantification of hepatic siderosis and 12 healthy controls, using T1- (120/4/90), intermediate - (120/4/20), and T2*- (120/15/20) weighted GRE sequences. Adrenal SI was graded as grade 0 (normal SI on all sequences), grade 1 (hypointensity on T2* alone), or grade 2 (hypointensity on at least T2*). Adrenal size was measured in the thalassemic patients and compared with normative data. Liver-to-muscle (L/M) SI ratios, expressing hepatic siderosis, were estimated on each sequence. Serum ferritin levels were recorded. Adrenal hypointensity (grades 1 and 2) was noted in 24/35 (68.6%) patients. L/M ratios correlated significantly with adrenal SI in all sequences. Patients with grade 1 and grade 2 adrenal SI had significantly decreased L/M ratios compared with grade 0. Serum ferritin correlated significantly with L/M values but not with adrenal SI. Adrenal size was within normal limits. Diffuse hypointensity in normal-sized adrenals is a common MR finding in beta-thalassemic patients and correlates with the degree of hepatic siderosis.

Arthropathy is a major clinical manifestation in primary hemochromatosis, typically affecting the metacarpophalangeal joints. Hip arthropathy is not uncommon, with radiologic features resembling osteoarthritis or calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD) crystal deposition disease. We describe the MR imaging findings of the hip in a patient with severe hip arthropathy and primary hemochromatosis and correlate them with the histopathologic findings. MR imaging showed severe degenerative changes, with large subchondral cysts and subchondral sclerosis in the femoral head and acetabulum. There was conspicuous correlation between MR imaging and pathologic findings of the resected femoral head. However, MR imaging failed to reveal intra-articular iron.

The “arcuate sign” is considered a pathognomonic sign for injuries of the posterolateral (PL) corner of the knee. The purpose of our study was to identify different patterns of injury to the fibular head that may associate with injuries to specific ligaments and tendons of the PL corner of the knee. The anatomic relations between the insertions of fibular collateral ligament (FCL), biceps femoris tendon (BFT), popliteofibular ligament (PFL), and arcuate ligament in normal cadaveric knees were also investigated. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed in two cadaveric knees which subsequently were dissected. Radiopaque markers were placed upon the fibular insertions of the FCL, BFT, PFL, and arcuate ligament in the dissected knees, and knee radiographs were then obtained. Twelve patients with radiographic or MR imaging evidence of isolated injury to the PL corner of the knee were retrospectively reviewed, with regard to avulsion fractures and marrow edema in the fibular head and the integrity of the ligaments of the PL corner of the knee. The PFL and arcuate ligament were seen to attach directly to the posterior and medial aspect of the styloid process of the fibular head. The FCL and BFT attached as a conjoined structure on the lateral aspect of the fibular head lateral, anterior and inferior to the attachment site of the PFL and arcuate ligament. Injury to the arcuate ligament or PFL was diagnosed in 8 patients who presented with a small avulsion fracture of the styloid process of the fibula (n=2), bone marrow edema in the medial aspect of the fibular head (n=3), or both (n=3). In 4 patients with injury to the conjoined tendon or FCL, a larger avulsion fragment and more diffuse proximal fibular edema were seen. Radiographic and MR imaging findings in injuries of the posterolateral corner of the knee may suggest injury to specific structures inserting in the fibular head.

Arthroscopic reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) using autografts or allografts is being performed with increasing frequency, particularly in young athletes. Although the procedure is generally well tolerated, with good success rates, early and late complications have been documented. As clinical manifestations of graft complications are often non-specific and plain radiographs cannot directly visualize the graft and the adjacent soft tissues, MR imaging has a definite role in the diagnosis of complications after ACL reconstruction and may direct subsequent therapeutic management. Our purpose is to review the normal MR imaging of the ACL graft and present the MR imaging findings of a wide spectrum of complications after ACL reconstruction, such as graft impingement, graft rupture, cystic degeneration of the graft, postoperative infection of the knee, diffuse and localized (i.e., cyclops lesion) arthrofibrosis, and associated donor site abnormalities. Awareness of the MR imaging findings of complications as well as the normal appearances of the normal ACL graft is essential for correct interpretation.

Miliary hepatic involvement is a frequent finding on autopsy in patients with disseminated tuberculosis. Imaging studies may reveal hepatosplenomegaly and/or parenchymal inhomogeneity and, in a minority of cases, focal lesions, invariably associated with miliary lung disease. An unusual case of disseminated tuberculosis with manifestations of miliary hepatic involvement, abdominal and neck lymphadenopathy on US and CT without any evidence of active disease in the lungs, spleen or other organ, is described.