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Case Seventy One- Bone Infarct

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Clinical History: Knee pain.

Findings: AP and lateral views of the knee demonstrate an ill-defined sclerotic lesion located centrally within the proximal tibial metadiaphysis.

Diagnosis: Bone infarct.

Discussion: Bone infarcts can be seen in many diseases including sickle cell disease, post-trauma, Gaucher's disease as well as in steroid use. Radiographic findings include patchy areas of lucency and sclerosis as well as bony collapse at articular surfaces.

Post-traumatic osteonecrosis involving the femoral head can be seen following a femoral neck fracture. Other common areas for post-traumatic osteonecrosis include the talus, scaphoid, humeral head as well as vertebral body.

Reference:
Resnick D, Sweet DE, Madewell JE. Bone and Joint Imaging, 2nd Edition.
W.B. Saunders, Philadelphia; 1996:941-955.

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Submitted by:
Simeon Abramson, M.D.
Cheryl Petersilge, M.D.