Chronic forms of osteomyelitis have a few characteristic radiographic features:
- Sclerotic bone with thickened cortex along endosteal and periosteal surfaces.
- Sequestrum is a term used to describe a loose, sclerotic focus of devascularized intramedullary bone surrounded by involucrum, which is extensive cortical thickening and periosteal reaction.
Example Report Negative for Osteomyelitis:
FINDINGS:
- Soft tissue ulceration along the plantar aspect of the great toe distal phalanx. No subjacent cortical loss, osteolysis, or periosteal reaction.
IMPRESSION:
- Soft tissue ulceration without radiographic signs of osteomyelitis. If there is continued concern for osteomyelitis, MRI could be more sensitive for early infection.