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Imaging findings of lower limb apophysitis

Javier Arnaiz1, Tatiana Piedra, Enrique Marco de Lucas

  • 1Department of Radiology, Marques de Valdecilla University Hospital, Santander, Spain. javierarnaiz@hotmail.com

AJR. American Journal of Roentgenology
|February 24, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Apophysitis, an inflammation of the traction epiphysis in growing children, is commonly caused by repetitive trauma. Understanding its MRI features is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

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.
Abstract

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