Radiological assessment of aluminium-related bone disease

Two hundred and fifty-nine radiological skeletal surveys were reviewed in 67 cases of end-stage renal failure. Fractures were identified in 16 patients, of whom 12 (17.9% of total) had aluminium-related bone disease. Moderate or severe fracturing osteopathy with more than five fractures not explained by trauma was 100% specific for aluminium intoxication. It is sufficient to perform radiological skeletal surveys in the assessment of renal osteodystrophy annually. They should include radiographs of the fingers, a lateral view of the lumbar spine and oblique views of the ribs. The primary aim of reporting on such surveys should be to grade the severity of fracturing osteopathy and of subperiosteal erosions.