ABSTRACT
The clinical diagnosis of musculoskeletal infections can be challenging due to non-specific signs and symptoms on presentation. These infections include infectious myositis, necrotising fasciitis, septic arthritis, septic bursitis, suppurative tenosynovitis, osteomyelitis, spondylodiscitis and periprosthetic infections. Diagnostic imaging is routinely employed as part of the investigative pathway to characterise the underlying infectious disease pattern, allowing expedited and customised patient management plans to optimise outcomes. This article provides an update on the various imaging modalities comprising of radiography, computed tomography, ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging and radionuclide procedures, and incorporates representative images of key findings in the different forms of musculoskeletal infections.
ABSTRACT
A 48-year-old woman presented with chronic right heel pain and paraesthesia over the foot. Magnetic resonance imaging of the right foot demonstrated isolated atrophy of the abductor digiti minimi. A diagnosis of Baxter's neuropathy was made and the patient was managed successfully via surgical release. We describe the clinical and radiological features of Baxter's neuropathy and, with brief examples, outline other causes of chronic heel pain.
Subject(s)
Foot/diagnostic imaging , Nerve Compression Syndromes/diagnostic imaging , Female , Foot/pathology , Heel , Humans , Middle Aged , Nerve Compression Syndromes/therapyABSTRACT
The acutely injured elbow can present as a diagnostic challenge, encompassing a spectrum of conditions that involve the various osseous and soft tissue structures of this complex joint. Imaging plays a vital role in the management of these patients by providing an accurate interpretation of the underlying trauma sustained, which can have important implications on the preservation of joint function and stability. This article examines the mechanisms, patterns, classifications, and imaging findings of acute elbow injuries, providing key concepts for the radiologist in the interpretation of these injuries.
Subject(s)
Diagnostic Imaging/methods , Elbow Injuries , Elbow Joint/diagnostic imaging , Elbow/diagnostic imaging , Fractures, Bone/diagnostic imaging , Acute Disease , Humans , Joint Dislocations/diagnostic imaging , Magnetic Resonance Imaging , Tomography, X-Ray Computed , UltrasonographyABSTRACT
Dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) is a relatively recent development in the imaging of gouty arthritis. Its availability and usage have become increasingly widespread in recent years. DECT is a non-invasive method for the visualisation, characterisation and quantification of monosodium urate crystal deposits which aids the clinician in the early diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of this condition. This article aims to give an up to date review and summary of existing literature on the role and accuracy of DECT in the imaging of gout. Techniques in image acquisition, processing and interpretation will be discussed along with pitfalls, artefacts and clinical applications.
