Pathologic Fractures: What the Radiologist Needs to Know. (15th September 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shin, Jane; Jarolimek, Amanda Mignon; Sanhaji, Latifa
• Is Part Of: Contemporary diagnostic radiology. Volume 42:Number 19(2019:Sep. 15)
• Publication Date: 2019-09-15
• Subjects: Pathologic Fractures -- Imaging Pathologic Fractures -- Complications of Pathologic Fractures -- Treatment of Pathologic Fractures; Medical radiology -- Periodicals; Diagnosis, Radioscopic -- Periodicals; Diagnosis -- Periodicals; Radiology -- Periodicals; Diagnosis, Radioscopic; Medical radiology; Periodicals; 616.0757
• DOI: 10.1097/01.CDR.0000579992.19228.12
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0149-9009

Abstract

Abstract : A pathologic fracture is a fracture of an abnormal bone weakened by an underlying disease, thus it requires careful assessment. Pathologic fractures may occur in benign lesions, primary and secondary malignancies, and a variety of metabolic disorders. A nontraumatic fracture, a fracture with minor trauma, and multiple contiguous fractures suggest a pathologic nature. In these cases of pathologic fractures, evaluation by advanced imaging modalities, including CT, MRI, and PET-CT, often reveals more significant findings. Accurately identifying and characterizing pathologic fractures on imaging are paramount for guiding proper treatment and reducing potential complications.