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Cortical desmoid

Dr MT Niknejad and Dr David Dang et al.

A cortical desmoid (also known as cortical avulsive injury) is a benign self limiting entity. This is a classic 'don't touch' lesion, and should not be confused with an agressive cortical / periosteal process (e.g. osteosarcoma).

Epidemiology

It typically presents in adolescents ( 10 - 15 years of age). There may be a male predilection.

Clinical presentation

Patients are usually asymptomatic and it is discovered incidentally. Occasionally pain may be present.

Pathology

It is related to repetitive stress at the attachment of the adductor magnus aponeurosis at the medial posterior aspect of the distal femoral metaphysis.

Location

It is seen at the posterior aspect of the distal femur. Can be bilateral in ~ 1/3 of cases.

Radiographic features

Plain film

Typically shows a saucer-shaped radiolucent corticalirregularity involving posteromedial aspect of the distal femoral metaphysis atthe attachment of the adductor magnus tendon. The lesion lacks an outer margin.

MRI

Defines anatomy much better and is seen as a cortically based lesion in the expected location (i.e. posteromedial distal femoral metaphysis).

T1 : low signal ⁴
T2 : high signal ⁴ a surrounding low signal rim may be present.
T1 C+ (Gd) : most show enhancement ³

Cortical desmoid is one of the skeletal “Don’t touch” lesions.

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References

Synonyms & Alternative Spellings

Synonyms or Alternative Spelling	Include in Listings?
Distal femoral cortical irregularity	✓
Distal femoral cortical irregularity (DFCI)	✗
Avulsive cortical irregularity of the distal femur	✗
Distal femoral cortical defect	✗
Periosteal desmoid	✗