Timothy G. Sanders

Radiographic Imaging of Musculoskeletal Neoplasia

BACKGROUNDnImaging is an integral part of the diagnosis, staging and evaluation of outcomes for bone and soft-tissue neoplasms. Each of the available imaging tools has a different role.nnnMETHODSnThe authors reviewed the efficacy of the current imaging modalities in the diagnosis, staging, and follow-up of patients with musculoskeletal neoplasia.nnnRESULTSnPlain-film radiography remains the gold standard in the differential diagnosis of bone lesions. Bone scintigraphy is an excellent screening modality, and computed tomography is especially useful in evaluating lesions of the axial skeleton. The superior soft-tissue resolution and multiplanar capabilities achieved with magnetic resonance imaging, however, has replaced the need for CT scans in many cases.nnnCONCLUSIONSnThe technological advances seen in recent years in all areas of imaging have improved the capabilities of these modalities to assist in the diagnosis, definition of tumor extent, and accurate staging of musculoskeletal tumors.

Acetabular paralabral cyst: an uncommon cause of sciatica.

Abstract. The association between tears of the acetabular labrum and paralabral cysts has been well documented, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been shown to be the most accurate noninvasive method of depicting not only the normal anatomic structures of the hip, but also the common pathologic processes such as labral tears and paralabral cysts. We present the case of an acetabular paralabral cyst that resulted in clinically symptomatic compression of the sciatic nerve.

Association of Intramuscular Cysts of the Rotator Cuff With Tears of the Rotator Cuff: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings and Clinical Significance****

Cystic lesions that arise adjacent to the shoulder have been reported in association with labral tears or as an unusual manifestation of massive rotator cuff tears. The purpose of this study was to define the relationship between intramuscular cysts of the rotator cuff and tears of the rotator cuff. Thirteen cases of intramuscular cysts of the rotator cuff were identified on magnetic resonance imaging of the shoulder and analyzed retrospectively along with the clinical data. Surgical findings were retrospectively reviewed in 5 patients who underwent follow-up arthroscopy. This series shows that intramuscular cysts of the rotator cuff are associated with small, full-thickness tears or partial undersurface tears of the rotator cuff. These cysts are easily identified on T2-weighted sequences and, when present, should always prompt a thorough search for associated rotator cuff pathology.

Primary periosteal lymphoma: an unusual presentation of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma with radiographic, MR imaging, and pathologic correlation

This report describes a primary periosteal location of non-Hodgkins lymphoma, without nodal disease, and without adjacent intramedullary disease at presentation. The clinical and imaging appearance of periosteal lymphoma simulates other neoplastic osseous surface tumors more than that of lymphoma in other locations. Consideration of this rare presentation of non-Hodgkins lymphoma in the differential diagnosis of periosteal bone lesions can be helpful to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

MR imaging of the elbow A spectrum of common pathologic conditions

The following pictorial essay is a review of common elbow pathology as seen on elbow MR imaging. These include pathologic conditions that involve tendons, ligaments, osseous structures, bursa and other miscellaneous and incidentally detected lesions.

A Benign Soft Tissue Mass Simulating a Glenoid Labral Cyst on Unenhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging

A 72-year-old Caucasian man initially presented with a vibratory sensation progressing to pain in his left scapular region. After failed conservative therapy, a left shoulder unenhanced magnetic resonance (MR) imaging study was performed. Initial interpretation suggested a glenoid labral tear with an associated paralabral cyst. Further review of the images identified heterogeneous increased T2-weighted signal intensity, which led to repeat MR imaging with intravenous contrast and the diagnosis of a solid tumor in the suprascapular notch. The MR appearance of the mass is illustrated and the usefulness of intravenous contrast administration in differentiating between a solid and cystic mass on MR imaging is discussed.