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Semin Musculoskelet Radiol 2016; 20(04): 345-352
DOI: 10.1055/s-0036-1592433
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Distinguishing Benign and Malignant Vertebral Fractures Using CT and MRI

Benedikt J. Schwaiger
1   Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
,
Alexandra S. Gersing
1   Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
,
Thomas Baum
2   Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
,
Christian R. Krestan
3   Department of Biomedical Imaging und Image-guided Therapy, Division of General and Pediatric Radiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna General Hospital, Vienna, Austria
,
Jan S. Kirschke
1   Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
14 November 2016 (online)

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Abstract

The differential diagnosis between benign and malignant vertebral fractures is a common challenge in clinical practice, especially because osteoporotic fractures become more frequent within the aging population and many malignant diseases spread to the bone first, impacting bone integrity. This article reviews the morphological features and computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) imaging findings that help differentiate between benign and malignant fractures. Newer techniques such as MR-based diffusion-weighted imaging, dynamic contrast-enhanced MR, and chemical-shift imaging as well as hybrid techniques such as positron emission tomography-CT are also discussed briefly.

Keywords

spine - fracture - imaging - osteoporosis - cancer
 

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