The musculoskeletal radiologic findings associated with chronic renal insufficiency

The numerous musculoskeletal changes associated with chronic renal insufficiency (CRI) are detected with increasing frequency since hemodialysis and kidney transplantation have prolonged the survival of these patients. These signs have been divided into two large groups. The first includes secondary hyperparathyroidism (bone resorption, periostitis and brown tumors), osteoporosis, osteosclerosis, osteomalacia and vascular and soft tissue calcification, all of which are grouped under the term renal osteodystrophy. the second group is composed of miscellaneous disorders including aluminum poisoning, amyloid and crystal deposition, destructive spondyloarthropathy, tendon rupture, infection and avascular necrosis. These changes are less common and occur especially in patients under prolonged hemodialysis or kidney transplant recipients. The detection of musculoskeletal involvement in CRI patients has a considerable impact on their clinical management. The present article reviews the radiological signs of these changes, including representative images that will aid in their recognition. (Author) 33 refs