Metaphyseal fragmentation with physiologic bowing: a finding not to be confused with the classic metaphyseal lesion.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to describe the varied appearances of metaphyseal fragmentation associated with physiologic bowing and to estimate their frequency in children undergoing radiographic evaluation.


CONCLUSIONS
The results of this study suggest that metaphyseal fragmentation is occasionally encountered in children with physiologic bowing. Results of a systematic imaging assessment should minimize confusion of this innocent radiologic alteration with the classic metaphyseal lesion of child abuse.
Kleinman
Paul K
PK
Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital Boston, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Ave., Boston, MA 02115, USA. paul.kleinman@childrens.harvard.edu
Sarwar
Zahir U
ZU
Newton
Alice W
AW
Perez-Rossello
Jeannette M
JM
Rebello
Gleeson
G
Herliczek
Thaddeus W
TW
D001848:Bone Diseases, Developmental / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D002675:Child, Preschool; D000013:Congenital Abnormalities / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007867:Leg Bones / Q000002:abnormalities*; D008297:Male; D011859:Radiography; D012189:Retrospective Studies