MR imaging of normal variants and interpretation pitfalls of the elbow

Discrimination of normal anatomic landmarks from true disease is one of the fundamental tenets of adept MR imaging. The radiologist is thus compelled to accumulate a comprehensive knowledge of normal structures, variants, and potential MR imaging interpretation pitfalls. In this article the authors focus on a number of normal, bony, ligamentous, and tendinous structures that can simulate disease at the elbow. A discussion of the particular anatomy responsible for the appearance of each of these interpretation pitfalls is provided. In addition, ways to distinguish these pitfalls from true elbow disease are discussed.