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Standard reference values for musculoskeletal ultrasonography
W A Schmidt1, H Schmidt, B Schicke
1Medical Centre for Rheumatology Berlin-Buch, Karower Strasse 11, 13125 Berlin. schmidt.wa@t-online.de
Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
|July 14, 2004
Summary
This study establishes standard reference values for musculoskeletal ultrasonography in healthy adults. Findings show normal fluid and hypoechoic rims in joints and tendons, preventing misdiagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Musculoskeletal Imaging
- Diagnostic Ultrasound
- Radiology
Background:
- Musculoskeletal ultrasonography is crucial for diagnosing joint and tendon abnormalities.
- Establishing normative data is essential for accurate interpretation of ultrasound findings in healthy individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define standard reference values for musculoskeletal ultrasonography in a cohort of healthy adults.
- To differentiate normal physiological findings from pathological conditions.
Main Methods:
- Ultrasound examination of shoulders, elbows, hands, hips, knees, and feet in 102 healthy volunteers.
- Measurement of tendon diameters, bursae, cartilage, erosions, and hypoechoic rims.
- Calculation of mean values +/- 2 standard deviations (SD) to establish reference ranges.
Main Results:
- Physiological hypoechoic rims and fluid were commonly observed in joints and tendon sheaths.
- Specific prevalence data for fluid in various bursae (e.g., subdeltoid, suprapatellar) and presence of erosions were recorded.
- High inter-observer correlation (0.96) and follow-up reliability (0.83) were achieved.
Conclusions:
- Fluid in bursae and hypoechoic rims around tendons/joints are normal findings in healthy adults.
- This study provides essential reference values for musculoskeletal ultrasonography.
- These reference values aid in preventing the misinterpretation of normal anatomical variations as pathologies.