title: Radiographically occult and subtle fractures: a pictorial review.
abstract: Radiographically occult and subtle fractures are a diagnostic challenge. They may be divided into (1) "high energy trauma fracture," (2) "fatigue fracture" from cyclical and sustained mechanical stress, and (3) "insufficiency fracture" occurring in weakened bone (e.g., in osteoporosis and postradiotherapy). Independently of the cause, the initial radiographic examination can be negative either because the findings seem normal or are too subtle. Early detection of these fractures is crucial to explain the patient's symptoms and prevent further complications. Advanced imaging tools such as computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and scintigraphy are highly valuable in this context. Our aim is to raise the awareness of radiologists and clinicians in these cases by presenting illustrative cases and a discussion of the relevant literature.
authors.affiliation: Department of Radiology, Musculoskeletal Section, Boston University School of Medicine, 820 Harrison Avenue, FGH Building, 3rd Floor, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
authors.forename: Mohamed
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Jarraya
authors.forename: Daichi
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Hayashi
authors.forename: Frank W
authors.initials: FW
authors.lastname: Roemer
authors.forename: Michel D
authors.initials: MD
authors.lastname: Crema
authors.forename: Luis
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Diaz
authors.forename: Jane
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Conlin
authors.forename: Monica D
authors.initials: MD
authors.lastname: Marra
authors.forename: Nabil
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Jomaah
authors.forename: Ali
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Guermazi