Brodie Abscess

Brodie abscess is a rare bone lesion that forms as a result of subacute osteomyelitis. Patients typically present with a several month history of non-specific pain and swelling, often lacking an inciting traumatic event and systemic symptoms. While radiographs are the initial diagnostic modality, Magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging can be useful in the further delineation of the disease. We present a typically appearing case, with initial normal radiography before findings became manifest. History: A 15 year old white male presented to clinic due to six months of right ankle pain. The physical examination revealed mild swelling and tenderness to palpation at the medial ankle and the patient was treated for an ankle sprain. The patient returned to clinic due to unresolved symptoms and increased swelling and erythema over a 3 week period. Fifteen months prior to presentation, the patient presented to the emergency department due to a right ankle injury. Ankle radiographs were negative at that time. Follow-up radiographs (months later) and MR imaging of the right leg were performed. Pub. in Military Medicine Radiology Corner, v172, Oct 2007.