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Quantitative Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Skeletal Muscle Disease
Published on: December 18, 2016
MRI nomenclature for musculoskeletal infection
Erin F Alaia1, Avneesh Chhabra2, Claus S Simpfendorfer3
1NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA. Erin.Fitzgerald@nyulangone.org.
Abstract:
The Society of Skeletal Radiology (SSR) Practice Guidelines and Technical Standards Committee identified musculoskeletal infection as a White Paper topic, and selected a Committee, tasked with developing a consensus on nomenclature for MRI of musculoskeletal infection outside the spine. The objective of the White Paper was to critically assess the literature and propose standardized terminology for imaging findings of infection on MRI, in order to improve both communication with clinical colleagues and patient care.A definition was proposed for each term; debate followed, and the committee reached consensus. Potential controversies were raised, with formulated recommendations. The committee arrived at consensus definitions for cellulitis, soft tissue abscess, and necrotizing infection, while discouraging the nonspecific term phlegmon. For bone infection, the term osteitis is not useful; the panel recommends using terms that describe the likelihood of osteomyelitis in cases where definitive signal changes are lacking. The work was presented virtually to SSR members, who had the opportunity for review and modification prior to submission for publication.
Insights
This study proposes standardized MRI terminology for musculoskeletal infections, aiming to improve communication and patient care. Consensus was reached on terms for soft tissue infections and bone infections, replacing vague descriptors.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Musculoskeletal Imaging
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Musculoskeletal infections require clear diagnostic criteria.
- Current MRI terminology for musculoskeletal infections lacks standardization.
- Improved communication is crucial for effective patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop consensus-based standardized nomenclature for MRI findings of musculoskeletal infections outside the spine.
- To critically assess existing literature and propose precise imaging terminology.
- To enhance communication between radiologists and clinicians, improving patient management.
Main Methods:
- A committee was formed by the Society of Skeletal Radiology (SSR) Practice Guidelines and Technical Standards Committee.
- Literature review and critical assessment of imaging findings.
- Consensus-building discussions to define and refine terminology for MRI of musculoskeletal infections.
Main Results:
- Consensus definitions were established for cellulitis, soft tissue abscess, and necrotizing infection.
- The nonspecific term 'phlegmon' is discouraged.
- For bone infections, 'osteitis' is deemed unhelpful; terms indicating likelihood of osteomyelitis are recommended when definitive changes are absent.
Conclusions:
- Standardized MRI terminology for musculoskeletal infections outside the spine has been proposed.
- The new nomenclature aims to improve diagnostic accuracy and interdisciplinary communication.
- Recommendations address specific soft tissue and bone infection imaging descriptions.
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