Mycetoma

Abstract

A retrospective analysis was made of the radiologic features of 30 cases of mycetoma. Conventional radiographs, computerized tomography (CT), and isotope bone scans were assessed. Soft-tissue swelling was the only abnormality in 27%. Periosteal reaction was present in 67%, sclerosis in 53%, endosteal reaction in 50%, and cortical erosions in 43%. Cavities which were found in 33% are important as predictors of the causative micro-organism. Conventional radiographs are essential to the management of mycetoma as bone involvement makes non-surgical cure unlikely. The role of CT in diagnosis and management appears to be minor, except when the thigh is involved. Isotope bone scanning appears to have no value in either diagnosis or management.