Which triad of radiological findings is characteristic of tuberculous arthritis of the hip?

• A Periosteal reaction, sequestrum, and involucrum formation
• B Subchondral sclerosis, osteophytes, and joint space narrowing
• C Diffuse osteopenia, central erosion, and rapid joint space loss
• D Periarticular osteoporosis, marginal erosion, and preservation of joint space until late ✓

Explanation

Phemister's triad describes tuberculous arthritis: juxta-articular osteoporosis, marginal erosions at the articular edges, and gradual narrowing of the joint space that is preserved until late because tuberculous granulation tissue destroys cartilage slowly from the periphery. Rapid concentric joint space loss favours pyogenic septic arthritis, and osteophyte formation points to degenerative disease.

Reference: Bailey and Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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