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Intra and extramedullary fat globules as an MRI marker for osteomyelitis

Ivan R B Godoy1, Luís Pecci Neto1, Tatiane Cantarelli Rodrigues1

  • 1Department of Radiology, Hospital do Coração (HCor) and Teleimagem, 53, 7th floor. CEP 04004-030, São Paulo, SP Brazil.

Radiology Case Reports
|September 28, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can diagnose acute osteomyelitis, but features may mimic other conditions. Intra and extramedullary fat globules are a key MRI marker for accurate osteomyelitis diagnosis.

Area of Science:

  • Radiology
  • Orthopedics
  • Medical Imaging

Background:

  • Acute osteomyelitis diagnosis relies on Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), but findings can be non-specific.
  • Imaging features of osteomyelitis may overlap with trauma or bone tumors, complicating diagnosis.
  • Accurate differentiation is crucial for timely and effective patient treatment.

Observation:

  • A case report detailing the MRI findings in a 15-year-old male with distal femur osteomyelitis is presented.
  • The patient exhibited intra and extramedullary fat globules, identified as a significant MRI marker.
  • This specific finding aids in distinguishing osteomyelitis from other bone pathologies.

Findings:

  • MRI findings in acute osteomyelitis range from bone marrow edema to bone destruction, periosteal reaction, and sequestrum.
  • Intra and extramedullary fat globules represent a valuable, albeit less common, MRI sign for osteomyelitis.
  • The presence of these fat globules can enhance diagnostic certainty.

Implications:

  • Recognizing intra and extramedullary fat globules on MRI can improve the accuracy of osteomyelitis diagnosis.
  • This highlights the importance of identifying subtle or additional imaging signs beyond typical features.
  • Precise diagnosis through advanced MRI interpretation is vital for appropriate management of bone infections.
Keywords:
BMI, body mass indexFat GlobulesMRIMRI, magnetic resonance imagingOsteomyelitis

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