Do I need an MRI for avascular necrosis. Long term steroid use for auto-immune blood condition.?

Question

Have now found out at age 38 I have osteopenia after a bone scan and now am concerned if steroid use has caused this will it have caused avascular necrosis too. I have had hip pain and normal xrays show no problems. My gp doesn't think I'm high risk and won't refer me on but I think it would put my mind at rest to have an MRI.

Answer 1

l don't think you have it.
Avascular necrosis at 38 years when the femoral epiphyses have long since fused would be a rarity indeed,even with long-term steroidal use.
A bone scan is adequate,the osteopaenia detected needs to be treated with supplements of calcium and phosphorous.You also need to avoid carrying weights or contact sports since you may be a bit prone to pathological fractures -for now-this will reverse once your bone density is back to normal.Your GP might also want to taper down your dose of steroids.
You don't need to waste your money having an MRI,umless absolutely nothing else will set your mind at rest.
Cheers!

Answer 2

Bone scan is cheaper and just as good. Did your bone scan cover your hips? Ask your GP if there was _less_ uptake in the hips or if there was _NO_ uptake in the hips.

normal x-rays do not show avascular necrosis

MRI can do too (with pretty pictures), but is an expensive nuisance and more unpleasant than a bone scan IMHO