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Osteopenia in children: CT assessment
A Kovanlikaya1, M L Loro, T N Hangartner
1Department of Radiology, Childrens Hospital Los Angeles, California 90027, USA.
Radiology
|March 1, 1996
Summary
Computed tomographic (CT) measurements of cortical bone can help differentiate pediatric osteopenia causes. CT analysis of bone area and density aids in distinguishing osteoporosis, osteogenesis imperfecta, and rickets in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Radiology
- Orthopedic Imaging
- Bone Metabolism
Background:
- Osteopenia in children presents a diagnostic challenge.
- Accurate differentiation of osteopenia etiologies is crucial for appropriate management.
- Computed tomography (CT) offers detailed bone structural analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of CT-derived cortical bone measurements in diagnosing pediatric osteopenia.
- To assess the value of CT in differentiating between various causes of osteopenia in children.
Main Methods:
- Cortical bone area and density of the femur midshaft were measured using CT in 37 children with osteopenia.
- Patient groups included those with osteoporosis, osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), and vitamin D-resistant rickets.
- Comparisons were made between affected and unaffected limbs, and against a control group of 17 healthy children.
Main Results:
- Cortical bone density was not influenced by sex, age, height, or weight.
- Children with osteoporosis and OI exhibited reduced cortical bone area but normal density.
- Children with rickets had normal bone area but significantly reduced cortical bone density compared to controls.
Conclusions:
- CT measurements of cortical bone area and density are valuable tools for differentiating pediatric osteopenia.
- CT can distinguish between osteoporosis, osteogenesis imperfecta, and rickets based on bone characteristics.