Imaging Findings at the Quadrangular Joint in Carpal Boss

Abstract

A carpal boss was initially described as a bony, sometimes painful mass at the quadrangular joint. Clinical examination and plain radiography will usually reveal the diagnosis. US and CT may add information. MRI may illustrate a variable bony morphology and additional bony and soft tissue pathologies. Bone marrow edema shows a significant correlation with a painful carpal boss. Hence, MRI may be of additional diagnostic value in patients with persistent pain and preoperatively. This paper presents a review of the anatomy and pathology in carpal boss. The merit of each imaging modality – in particular MRI – is mentioned.

Keywords

• wrist
• carpal boss
• os styloideum
• radiography
• CT
• US
• MRI