Demographics:
29 years old, Male
Indication:
Back pain
Findings
- T2/STIR signal hyperintensity in the anterosuperior and anteroinferior corners of the T5-T6, T8-T10, and T12-L2 vertebral bodies
- T2/STIR signal hyperintensity associated with multiple bilateral costovertebral joints
- Likely multilevel bridging anterior syndesmophytes
- Normal alignment
- Normal cord signal
- Disc spaces are maintained
Diagnosis
Ankylosing spondylitis
Sample Report
Edema in the anterior aspects of the endplates about the T5-T6, T8-T9, T9-T10, T12-L1, and L1-L2 intervertebral discs, edema about multiple bilateral costovertebral joints, and likely multilevel bridging anterior syndesmophytes. These findings are most suggestive of an inflammatory spondyloarthropathy, particularly ankylosing spondylitis. Recommend rheumatology evaluation.
Given the increased vulnerability to fractures in patients with ankylosing spondylitis, dedicated CT imaging should be considered for further evaluation if there is a history of trauma.
No abnormal cord signal or significant mass effect on the thecal sac in the thoracic spine.
Discussion