Condensing osteitis of the clavicle: magnetic resonance imaging as an adjunct method for differential diagnosis

Condensing osteitis of the clavicle is a benign disorder leading to osteosclerosis of the medial end of the clavicle. The differential diagnosis between condensing osteitis of the clavicle and ischaemic necrosis of the medial clavicular epiphysis (Friedrich's disease), osteoid osteoma, and low grade osteomyelitis can be difficult. In the case history reported here, magnetic resonance imaging was a useful non-invasive procedure for the diagnosis of condensing osteitis of the clavicle.