Endosteal scalloping

Last revised by Liz Silverstone ◉ ◈ on 26 Sep 2024

Endosteal scalloping refers to resorption of the inner surface of bone cortex, i.e. the endosteum.

Pathology

Benign expanding intramedullary lesions promote bone remodeling and endosteal scalloping over time. Enchondromas commonly cause endosteal scalloping in the short bones of the hand.

In long bones, chondroid lesions causing endosteal scalloping involving more than two thirds of the thickness of the cortex and extending more than two thirds of the length of the lesion should be assessed for malignancy 6.

Medullary metastases can destroy and replace cortical bone from the inside. Myeloma cells cause osteoclast activation and inhibition of osteoblasts.

Differential diagnosis

Lesions that typically result in endosteal scalloping include:

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