Musculoskeletal ImagingProstaglandin
one of a group of compounds derived from unsaturated 20-carbon fatty acids, which are involved in diverse physiologic processes. One of the complications that have occurred during and after prostaglandin E1 therapy is periosteal new bone formation, appearing as
periostitis and cortical thickening and usually occurring after long-term (40 days or more) infusion of prostaglandin E1. Affected sites include the ribs,
tubular bones, mandible,
clavicle,
scapula and
pelvis. The periostitis varies in intensity from subtle bone deposits to widespread alterations (
Fig.1). Complete
resolution commonly occurs spontaneously over a period of 6 months -1 year. (See
chemical agents (III:1), Fig. 3)
DR/RB
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AP radiograph of the lower extremity demonstrates periosteal thickening in a patient receiving prostaglandin E1 therapy for patent ductus-dependent congenital heart disease.
(Courtesy of Thomas Broderick, MD, Orange, CA)
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Prostaglandin, Fig.1 | |