Radiology Cases Pathological Fractures LSBU

Description: Despite the strength of the composite material that is bone, there are many processes that can weaken it; from simple destruction to deficiencies of its components. The appearance of the bone in a case of deficient materials is often altered by the attempts at repair. The development of a Looser zone in osteomalacia is a special case but reveals the process nonetheless. Old bone is removed by osteoclasts before remodelling commences. Any response to mechanical stress involves some theoretical further weakening of the bone as poorly ossifying osteoid is laid down, which widens the microfracture. The Looser zones in this pelvis reveal the main lines of buttressing and the analogy with gothic architecture is obvious.
The cases are mostly from focal pathology. Congenital bone disorders may also be associated with fracture, particularly Osteogenesis imperfecta and Osteopetrosis.