Primary hypertrophic osteoarthropathy: ultrasound and MRI findings

Abstract

Primary hypertrophic osteoarthropathy is a rare genetic disorder related to failures in prostaglandin metabolism. Patients present with joint pain, limb enlargement, skin thickening and finger clubbing. Radiographs show characteristic periosteal reaction and thickening along the long bones. We present MRI and US findings in a child with the condition. Ultrasound showed echogenic tissue surrounding the long bones, presumably reflecting oedema and inflammatory tissue. Doppler sonograms demonstrated increased vascularity on the surface of some superficial bony structures.

Keywords: Child; Magnetic resonance imaging; Pachydermoperiostosis; Periostitis; Primary hypertrophic osteoarthropathy; Ultrasound.