[Aneurysmal bone cyst: imaging diagnosis and evaluation of therapeutic methods].
OBJECTIVE
To determine the imaging features and useful therapeutic methods of aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC).


METHODS
The radiographs, CT, and MR scans of 82 cases of pathologically proved ABC were retrospectively analyzed. Post-therapeutic follow-up of 45 cases was carried out for 3 months to 24 years.


RESULTS
Plain radiographs showed eccentric expansile osteolysis in most cases. Fluid-fluid level was seen in 21/27 cases on CT scans, and calcification or ossification in 11/27 cases. MR images showed a hypointense rim in 7/7 cases, multilocular hyperintense cysts with hypointense septae on T2WI in 6/7 cases, and fluid-fluid levels in 5/7 cases.


CONCLUSIONS
CT and MR scans are superior to plain radiographs in the diagnosis of ABC in the osteolytic phase and in the axial skeleton. Curettage combined with bone graft surgery is the most effective therapeutic method for ABC of the extremities. Arterial embolization with or without surgery is valuble for the treatment of ABC arising from the axial skeleton.
Guo
Y
Y
Department of Radiology, First Affliated Hospital, Sun Yet-San University of Medical Science, Guangzhou.
Hang
Z
Z
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D017824:Bone Cysts, Aneurysmal / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004621:Embolization, Therapeutic; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013122:Spinal Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed