Review of radiological scoring methods of osteoporotic vertebral fractures for clinical and research settings.
BACKGROUND
Osteoporosis is the most common metabolic bone disease; vertebral fractures are the most common osteoporotic fractures.


METHODS
Several radiological scoring methods using different criteria for osteoporotic vertebral fractures exist. Quantitative morphometry (QM) uses ratios derived from direct vertebral body height measurements to define fractures. Semi-quantitative (SQ) visual grading is performed according to height and area reduction. The algorithm-based qualitative (ABQ) method introduced a scheme to systematically rule out non-fracture deformities and diagnoses osteoporotic vertebral fractures based on endplate depression. The concordance across methods is currently a matter of debate.


RESULTS
This article reviews the most commonly applied standardised radiographic scoring methods for osteoporotic vertebral fractures, attaining an impartial perspective of benefits and limitations. It provides image examples and discusses aspects that facilitate large-scale application, such as automated image analysis software and different imaging investigations. It also reviews the implications of different fracture definitions for scientific research and clinical practice.


CONCLUSIONS
Accurate standardised scoring methods for assessing osteoporotic vertebral fractures are crucial, considering that differences in definition will have implications for patient care and scientific research. Evaluation of the feasibility and concordance among methods will allow establishing their benefits and limitations, and most importantly, optimise their effectiveness for widespread application.
Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands. h.l.d.w.oei@erasmusmc.nl
Ling
L
Oei
Fernando
F
Rivadeneira
Felisia
F
Ly
Stephan J
SJ
Breda
M Carola
MC
Zillikens
Albert
A
Hofman
André G
AG
Uitterlinden
Gabriel P
GP
Krestin
Edwin H G
EH
Oei
D003952:Diagnostic Imaging / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards*; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods; D008297:Male; D058866:Osteoporotic Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000503:physiopathology; D015995:Prevalence; D011857:Radiographic Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000503:physiopathology; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000379:methods