periosteal reaction
Pronunciation: pair-ee-AH-stee-al
Reactive new bone formation by the periosteum in response to underlying pathology, visible on imaging studies.
Full Definition
Periosteal reaction refers to the formation of new bone by the periosteum in response to various pathological processes including tumors, infections, or trauma. In orthopedic oncology, the pattern of periosteal reaction provides important diagnostic clues about tumor aggressiveness and behavior. Aggressive patterns include laminated ('onion skin'), spiculated ('sunburst'), or interrupted reactions, while benign processes typically show solid, uninterrupted new bone formation. The absence of periosteal reaction may suggest slow-growing lesions or intramedullary tumors without cortical involvement.
Usage
Usage note: Describe the specific pattern (laminated, spiculated, solid) to convey diagnostic significance.
In Context
- "Aggressive periosteal reaction with sunburst pattern suggested malignant bone tumor." — Radiology report
- "The solid periosteal reaction indicated a benign or slowly growing process." — Imaging interpretation