Stress Fractures of the Lumbar Spine: Pediculolysis as an Unusual Presentation Variant. Case Report
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15417/issn.1852-7434.2025.90.3.2060Keywords:
Stress fracture, lumbar spine, pediculolysisAbstract
In 1990, Gunzburg and Fraser introduced the term pediculolysis to describe stress fractures of the vertebral pedicles, a rare clinical presentation. Repetitive microtrauma associated with lumbar spine hyperextension and rotational movements is considered a key risk factor for this type of lesion. We report the case of a 22-year-old professional rugby player with a history of left-sided spondylolysis
who presented with an episode of disabling acute low back pain. Radiographic studies revealed a right pedicle fracture of the fifth lumbar vertebra (L5) and contralateral spondylolysis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed signs of edema in the left pedicle. Conservative orthopedic management was indicated, with a favorable clinical outcome and return to full sports activity.
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