[Ultrasonographic aspects of Sinding-Larsen-Johansson disease]

Sinding-Larsen-Johansson disease affects the patellar tendon in its attachment to the patella. It is quite frequent in adolescents, especially in young males practising sporting activities. The diagnosis is mainly clinical. The presence of tenderness and localized swelling of the lower pole of the patella are characteristic of the disorder. We analyzed three patients with Sinding-Larsen-Johansson disease. Ultrasound gave complete informations about the involvement of bone, cartilage and patellar tendon. In these patients the lower pole of the patella appeared irregular, fragmented, with swelling of the cartilage and thickening at the insertion of the patellar tendon. Ultrasonography is also suitable for periodical follow-up the course of the disease.