Osteomesopyknosis is a genetic disorder transmitted as an autosomal dominant trait and is characterised by osteosclerosis of the axial spine, pelvis and proximal areas of the long bones. Its importance is due to recognising this as a benign entity and not requiring more radiological work up.
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Clinical presentation
Osteomesopyknosis presents with chronic, low-grade back pain in the thoracic and lumbar regions. Life expectancy is normal. Height and intellect are not affected.
Radiographic features
Dense diffuse osteosclerosis of axial spine, pelvis and proximal long bones.
History and etymology
The term osteomesopyknosis was coined by Maroteaux in 1980 after being described by Simon et al. in 1979 1.
Differential diagnosis
The radiographic appearance may be confused with:
- diffuse sclerotic metastases
- renal osteodystrophy
- other diffuse osteosclerotic disorders, e.g. osteopetrosis, pyknodysostosis