Phemister triad (tuberculosis)

Last revised by Omar Alabdulkareem on 14 Aug 2021

The triad of Phemister refers to three radiographic features seen classically with tuberculous arthropathy 4:

  • juxta-articular osteopenia/osteoporosis
  • peripheral osseous erosions
  • gradual narrowing of joint space

History and etymology

Named after Dallas Burton Phemister (1882-1951), American orthopedic surgeon 3.

ADVERTISEMENT: Supporters see fewer/no ads

Cases and figures

  • Case 1
    Drag here to reorder.
  • Updating… Please wait.

     Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

     Thank you for updating your details.