Normal apophysis of the proximal 5th metatarsal

Case contributed by Mohammad Taghi Niknejad
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Work up for trauma.

Patient Data

Age: 12 years
Gender: Male

The apophysis of the proximal 5th metatarsal lies laterally and is oriented longitudinally parallel to the shaft.

Case Discussion

Apophysis of the fifth metatarsal base appears on plain radiographs before age 12 for boys and 10 for girls. The fusion of the apophysis to the metatarsal base usually occurs within the following 2-4 years.

It should not be confused with an avulsion fracture.

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