Osteomyelitis of the ischiopubic synchondrosis: imaging findings

Skeletal Radiol. 2004 Mar;33(3):176-80. doi: 10.1007/s00256-003-0673-6. Epub 2003 Nov 7.

Abstract

Osteomyelitis of the ischiopubic synchondrosis in children is not rare and presents a diagnostic problem because of the diversity of presentation and the deceptive nature of symptoms. Radiological assessment is extremely difficult because of the variation in normal ossification on radiography and normal physiological uptake on radioisotope bone scan. We present two cases of osteomyelitis of the ischiopubic synchondrosis and describe findings on radiographs, isotope bone scan, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI changes have not been described in any of the case reports in the English literature. Aspiration and biopsy remain the gold standard for diagnosis. However, MRI appearances can significantly increase diagnostic confidence prior to intervention.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Child
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Ischium* / diagnostic imaging
  • Ischium* / pathology
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Osteomyelitis / diagnosis*
  • Pubic Bone* / diagnostic imaging
  • Pubic Bone* / pathology
  • Radionuclide Imaging
  • Staphylococcal Infections / diagnosis*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed