Rafael Mauricio Jimenez MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Nogah Shabshin MD, Abstract Co-Author: Consultant, Active Implants Corporation, Israel

Tal Laor MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Diego Jaramillo MD, MPH, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

1. To identify the pediatric population at risk for stress fractures. 2. To review the MRI findings of stress fractures in the pediatric population. 3. To discuss the differential diagnoses of stress fractures 4. To review common and unusual stress fractures that could be confused other pathologies, and useful signs that help to make the diagnosis

Definition of stress fractures. Mechanism of pathology of stress fractures; Imaging findings of a broad spectrum of stress fractures in the extremities and spine. Sample cases of stress fractures by anatomic location; upper extremity: capitate, distal humerus, ulna; Lower extremity; mid femoral shaft, tibia, cuboid, calcaneus, third metatarsal; Sacral stress fracture, other spine insufficiency fractures.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the common and uncommon extremity stress fractures, the mechanism of injury, and imaging characteristics on MRI. After reviewing this exhibit, the reader should be familiar with the spectrum of imaging characteristics of various stress fractures in children. Common and uncommon locations will be reviewed, the etiologies will be summarized, and tips on how to differentiate between infectious, inflammatory, and neoplastic etiologies will be offered.

Jimenez, R, Shabshin, N, Laor, T, Jaramillo, D, Taking the Stress out of Evaluating Stress Fractures in Children.  Radiological Society of North America 2009 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 29 - December 4, 2009 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2009/8014701.html