Skeletal fluorosis: don't miss the diagnosis!

Meriem Sellami, Hend Riahi, Kaouther Maatallah, Hanen Ferjani, Mouna Chelli Bouaziz, Mohamed Fethi Ladeb

Journal: Skeletal radiology 2020;49(3):345-357

PMID: 31501957

Abstract

Skeletal fluorosis is a rare toxic osteopathy characterized by massive bone fixation of fluoride. The disease occurs as an endemic problem in some parts of the world and is the result of prolonged ingestion or rarely by inhalation of high amounts of fluoride. Radiographic presentation is mainly characterized by bone changes with osteocondensation and later ossification of many ligaments and interosseous membranes. Skeletal fluorosis is not clinically obvious and can be confused with other rheumatologic disorders. Its severity lies in the development of skeletal deformities and neurological complications. Management of fluorosis generally focuses on symptom treatment.

Address: Radiology Department, Orthopaedic Institute M T Kassab, University of Tunis El Manar- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Ksar Said, 2010, Manouba, Tunisia. [email protected].; Radiology Department, Orthopaedic Institute M T Kassab, University of Tunis El Manar- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Ksar Said, 2010, Manouba, Tunisia.; Rheumatology Department, Orthopaedic Institute M T Kassab, University of Tunis El Manar- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Manouba, Tunisia.

DOI: 10.1007/s00256-019-03302-0

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https://doi.org/10.1007/s00256-019-03302-0

MeSH Terms: Bone Diseases, Metabolic, Fluoride Poisoning, Humans, Ossification, Heterotopic, Osteosclerosis