Drug-induced lesions of the musculoskeletal system

Drugs, whether prescribed by physicians or taken without the knowledge of the physician, may result in profound changes in the musculoskeletal system. Some drugs may produce teratogenic changes in the developing fetus frequently, but not necessarily, in association with anomalies of other systems. Other drugs may have their effects on the child or adult, whereas a number of drugs result in either teratogenic or nonteratogenic abnormalities. In the course of evaluating any diagnostic imaging study, it is essential that the radiologist be aware of any drugs that the patient may be taking and be knowledgeable of the radiologic changes that such drugs may produce in the musculoskeletal system.