Osteopetrosis

Case contributed by Chris O'Donnell
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Low back pain. MRI not possible - bone stimulator in situ to promote healing of non-united spontaneous femoral fracture.

Patient Data

Age: 50 years
Gender: Female

CT spine

ct

Typical "rugger jersey" spine with dense posterior appendages and bilateral pars interarticularis defects from L1 to L5 - note only mild anterior spondylolithesis at L5/S1. 

Typical well-defined pars defects through very dense bone at all lumbar levels. 

Case Discussion

This patient has known osteopetrosis (marble bone disease).     

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