Focal Periphyseal Edema Zone on Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Greater Trochanter Apophysis: A Case Report

INTRODUCTION: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been used to identify focal bone marrow edema or a focal periphyseal edema (FOPE) zone, in the closing growth plates of adolescent knees. CASE REPORT: In the current case, an 11-year-old boy reported pain in his left hip. He had been participating in gymnastic classes at school, but otherwise, he was not an active athlete. Based on MRI findings, he was diagnosed with a FOPE zone in his greater trochanteric apophysis. Discontinuity of the cartilaginous growth plate at the FOPE zone was indicative of osseous continuity between the metaphysis and apophysis. CONCLUSION: This case suggested that a FOPE zone can occur in a non-weight bearing growth plate and through a tethering mechanism at the initial ossification site during skeletal growth plate maturation.