Imaging features of musculoskeletal involvement in systemic sclerosis

Eur Radiol. 2007 May;17(5):1172-80. doi: 10.1007/s00330-006-0420-1. Epub 2006 Sep 23.

Abstract

This article describes the radiographic, sonographic and magnetic resonance (MR) features of musculoskeletal involvement in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Conventional radiography is the traditional method of detecting digital calcifications, but ultrasonography (US) is also able to detect such calcifications before they appear on radiographs. MR imaging can be used to diagnose overlapping conditions (i.e., SSc and myositis or SSc and rheumatoid arthritis), and less frequently, to reveal neurologic complications of SSc. In patients with vascular ulcers, MR angiography is able to depict decreased flow within collateral digital arteries.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Contrast Media
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Musculoskeletal Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Musculoskeletal Diseases / diagnostic imaging
  • Scleroderma, Systemic / diagnosis*
  • Scleroderma, Systemic / diagnostic imaging
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Ultrasonography

Substances

  • Contrast Media