Bone Abstracts

Patients with hereditary multiple osteochondromas (HMO) undergo frequent X-rays to evaluate the growth of the osteochondromas. The conventional radiographs show clear images of the growth of the bony part of the osteochondromas and of the growth direction of the long bones. However the cartilage cap on the osteochondroma nor the cartilage of the nearby epiphysis or the surrounding soft tissue of the osteochondromas is shown. Besides these disadvantages taking frequent radiographs carries the potential risk of inducing malignant degeneration trough radiation.

In this study we look at the use of whole-body (Wb) MR imaging as a tool to follow patients with HMO.

Two HMO affected children underwent two whole-body MRI’s in a year time to identify the osteochondromas and to follow their growth. The MR images were compared to regular follow-up radiographs of these patients during this year.

All the known osteochondromas found on the radiographs of the extremities were visible on the Wb MRI. At least one osteochondroma was seen on the Wb MRI earlier than detection was possible on the x-rays. When comparing the visibility of the different Wb MRI settings, the proton density spir setting of the Wb MRI makes the osteochondromas best visible.

Whole-body MRI is an effective tool to follow patients with HMO, with the disadvantage that sometimes general anaesthesia is needed to preform the scan. The surrounding soft tissue and the cartilage cap of the osteochondroma are clearly visible.

Disclosure: The authors declared no competing interests.