permeative pattern
Pronunciation: PUR-mee-ay-tiv
A radiographic pattern showing ill-defined tumor margins with moth-eaten bone destruction, indicating aggressive behavior.
Full Definition
Permeative pattern describes a radiographic appearance of bone destruction characterized by multiple small, poorly defined lytic lesions that appear to infiltrate through the bone in an irregular fashion, resembling moth-eaten holes. This pattern indicates rapid, aggressive tumor growth with the ability to permeate through bone trabeculae and cortical bone. It is typically associated with high-grade malignancies and represents the most aggressive end of the spectrum of bone destruction patterns, contrasting with geographic (well-defined) and motheaten (moderately aggressive) patterns. Recognition of permeative patterns is crucial for staging and treatment planning in orthopedic oncology.
Usage
Usage note: Part of the Lodwick classification system for bone destruction patterns.
In Context
- "The permeative pattern of bone destruction suggested a high-grade malignancy requiring immediate biopsy." — Radiology interpretation
- "Unlike the geographic margins seen in benign lesions, this tumor demonstrated a permeative pattern throughout the medullary cavity." — Pathology conference