Vertebral body avascular necrosis

Case contributed by Frank Gaillard
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Back pain.

Patient Data

Age: Elderly.
Gender: Female

Lumbar spine CT

ct

A lumbar vertebral body is sclerotic and collapsed with classical horizontal cleft of gas within the bone (as well as degenerative gas in a number of the discs). This appearance is very typical of avascular necrosis (Kümmell disease). 

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.