Imaging findings of lower limb apophysitis

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Orthopedics
• Radiology
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Apophysitis is a common condition in pediatric patients, characterized by inflammation at the site where a tendon or ligament attaches to a bone's growth plate.
• It typically results from repetitive stress or overuse injuries during periods of rapid skeletal growth.
• Commonly affected sites include the heel (calcaneus), knee (tibial tuberosity), and hip.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of lower limb apophysitis.
• To detail the anatomy, physiopathology, clinical presentation, and differential diagnoses.
• To emphasize the role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in diagnosing apophysitis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of apophysitis, focusing on anatomical and physiological aspects.
• Analysis of clinical findings and diagnostic challenges.
• Detailed examination of MRI features characteristic of apophysitis.

Main Results:

• Apophysitis involves inflammation of the traction epiphysis due to chronic trauma in skeletally immature individuals.
• Key anatomical and physiopathological factors influence the manifestation of apophysitis.
• MRI is instrumental in identifying specific features that confirm the diagnosis.

Conclusions:

• Apophysitis is a frequent cause of pain in active children and adolescents.
• A thorough understanding of apophysitis's underlying mechanisms is vital for accurate MRI interpretation.
• Precise MRI evaluation can prevent misdiagnosis and guide appropriate treatment strategies.