Osteochondral lesion of the fifth metatarsal head in a triathlete

Ir J Med Sci. 2010 Mar;179(1):155-7. doi: 10.1007/s11845-008-0179-2. Epub 2008 Aug 14.

Abstract

Osteochondral lesions (OCLs) are rare joint disorders, typically found in the larger joints of the body and less so in smaller joints (J Bone Joint Surg Am 41-A:988-1020, 1959; Arthroscopy 6(3):190-197, 1990; Clin Orthop Relat Res 148:245-253, 1980). Although their specific cause is subject to frequent debate, they are often caused by trauma with subsequent compromise of the articular cartilage (Arthroscopy 6(3):190-197, 1990; J Bone Joint Surg Am 78(3):439-456, 1996). Symptoms are typically attributable to a mechanical defect, either of the bony defect or a flap of cartilage. The current case report describes an osteochondral lesion of the head of the fifth metatarsal which is a heretofore unreported location. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the lesion revealed a notable subchondral bone signal change, indicating a possible synovial fluid pressure phenomenon rather than a mechanical defect.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anesthetics, Local / therapeutic use
  • Athletic Injuries / diagnosis*
  • Athletic Injuries / drug therapy
  • Athletic Injuries / pathology
  • Foot Injuries / drug therapy*
  • Foot Injuries / pathology
  • Humans
  • Lidocaine / therapeutic use
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Metatarsal Bones / injuries*
  • Osteochondritis / diagnosis*
  • Osteochondritis / drug therapy
  • Osteochondritis / etiology

Substances

  • Anesthetics, Local
  • Lidocaine