Comparison of radiography,CT and MR imaging in the detection of clinical atypical pyogenic osteomyelitis

Objective:To compare radiography,CT and MR in the detection of clinical atypical pyogenic osteomyelitis.Methods:Twenty-six cases of atypical pyogenic osteomyelitis were imaged with radiography,CT and MRI.The imaging signs were analysed and diagnosed by double blind method compared with the pathologic findings.Results:Of the 26 cases,there were 8 cases with acute osteomyelitis,12 cases with chronic osteomyelitis and 3 cases with Brodie's abscess and chronic sclerosing osteomyelitis,respectively.Radiography,CT and MR made a correct diagnosis in 20 cases,3 cases were misdiagnosed as malignant bone tumors,and other 3 cases as benign bone tumors and tumor like lesions.Conclusion:It is very helpful to diagnose and differentiate atypical pyogenic osteomyelitis by analyzing X-ray,CT and MR features,understanding pathologic features and development tendency of the lesion.