Locomotor consequences of electrical and radiation injuries, burns and freezings

Damage to bones and/or joints caused by occupational exposure to electrical current, heat, cold, and ionizing radiations remains a relatively little known entity among rheumatologists. Radiologically only a few typical changes may be seen. Bone demineralization, reflex dystrophy, periostitis, osteomyelitis, osteonecrosis, pathological fractures, degenerative joint disease and, in radiation-induced damage, malignancies, do not differ from those occurring from other causes or arising spontaneously. Correct interpretation of the radiological changes often rests on a history of past exposure. Because of the time lapse between exposure and evidence of damage, patients frequently omit to inform their doctors. Only by taking a careful history and elucidating such exposure can a proper diagnosis be made.