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Pseudofracture: An Acute Peripheral Tissue Trauma Model
Published on: April 18, 2011
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Os centrale carpi bone bruising simulating an acute scaphoid fracture
Hicham Bouredoucen1, Pierre-Alexandre Poletti2, David Branco Ferreira2
1Division of Radiology, Department of Imaging and Medical Informatics, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva, Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, 1211 Geneva 14, Geneva, Switzerland. Hicham.Bouredoucen@hug.ch.
Skeletal Radiology
|October 29, 2025
Summary
This case report details bone bruising of the os centrale carpi, an uncommon wrist bone, which mimicked a scaphoid fracture on imaging. This highlights the importance of considering rare diagnoses in wrist trauma.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
- Anatomy
Background:
- The os centrale carpi is a rare accessory carpal bone.
- Wrist trauma can present with complex imaging findings.
- Differentiating acute injuries from anatomical variants is crucial for diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the first case of imaging findings of os centrale carpi bone bruising.
- To illustrate how this condition can simulate an acute scaphoid fracture.
- To discuss differential diagnoses for wrist trauma.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 22-year-old male with dorsolateral wrist pain after trauma.
- Initial radiography showing a possible scaphoid fracture and ulnar styloid fracture.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for detailed assessment of wrist structures.
Main Results:
- Radiography suggested a distal scaphoid pole fracture and ulnar styloid fracture.
- MRI confirmed bone bruising of the os centrale carpi.
- MRI also revealed an ulnar styloid process fracture.
Conclusions:
- Os centrale carpi bone bruising is an uncommon finding in wrist trauma.
- Imaging findings can mimic acute scaphoid fractures.
- Comprehensive imaging, including MRI, is essential for accurate diagnosis.
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