Metallosis: A diagnosis not only in patients with metal-on-metal prostheses. (2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Oliveira, Catarina A.; Candelária, Isabel S.; Oliveira, Pedro B.; Figueiredo, Antonio; Caseiro-Alves, Filipe
• Is Part Of: European journal of radiology open. Volume 2(2015)
• Page Start: 3
• Page End: 6
• Publication Date: 2015
• Subjects: Metallosis -- Hip prosthesis -- Computed tomography; Medical radiology -- Periodicals; 616.075705
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ejro.2014.11.001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2352-0477

Abstract

Abstract: Although the real actual incidence of metallosis is unknown, it is described as a rare diagnosis with a 5% estimated incidence in the hip prosthetic replacements. The adoption of non-metallic articular prosthetic devices, made of polyethylene and ceramic, is the main reason to the diminishing number of reported cases. We present a case of metallosis with a clinical systemic presentation in a patient with a non-metallic hip prosthesis, which occurred due to a fracture of the acetabular liner component, leading to abnormal metal–metal contact. The metallic debris leads to a massive local and systemic release of cytokines. Revision is necessary whenever osteolysis and loosening of the prosthesis occur. Imaging evaluation, especially CT, has a central role in diagnosis and planning the surgical treatment.