Radiology
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Case Reports
Renal and hepatic microaneurysms: report of a new entity simulating polyarteritis nodosa.
A case of 22-year-old woman with autopsy-proved poorly differentiated carcinoma diffusely involving the visceral organs is presented. Angiographic findings typical of polyarteritis nodosa were demonstrated. The necrotizing vasculidities which form microaneurysms are reviewed, and a new cause is added to this differential diagnosis.
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Fluoroscopically controlled intra-articular facet joint block is a reliable method of diagnosing low back pain and sciatica caused by lumbar facet arthropathy. Of 20 patients studied, 13 had complete and immediate relief of pain, confirming the diagnosis, Six patients have been free of pain for more than six months following a single facet joint block with injection of a local anesthetic and corticosteroid suspension. Preliminary findings suggest that computed tomography has an important role in diagnosing symptomatic facet arthropathy.
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Lumbar facet arthropathy is an important cause of low back pain and sciatica. Intra-articular facet block can confirm symptomatic facet joint disease. Good understanding of the anatomy of the joint and fluoroscopic control are essential for intra-articular placement of anesthetics and steroids.