Multiparous female with a 6 week history of back pain.
The multiparous woman presented with a 6 week history of low back pain. Radiographs of the lumbar spine and pelvis were obtained. These showed bilateral and symmetrical dense sclerosis on the iliac aspect of the sacro-iliac joints. The joint spaces were preserved. A diagnosis of Osteitis Condensans Ilii was made.
Osteitis Condensans Ilii is primarily a condition of young, mutiparous females. It is considered a stress reaction, presumably to pregnancy and childbirth. It may however also occur in males and nulliparous females. It is usually asymptomatic but can occasionally be associated with back pain. The natural history is usually one of spontaneous resolution.
The classic radiographic appearances are of triangular, bilateral and symmetrical sclerosis affecting only the inferior aspect of the iliac side of the sacro-iliac joints with preservation of the joint space. This is an important radiological diagnosis that should not be confused with sacroilitis in which the joint space is narrowed and the sacral aspect of the joint is also of increased density.
Osteitis Condensans Ilii
Based on the provided anteroposterior radiograph of the pelvis, the following findings were observed:
These findings indicate symmetrical sclerotic changes on the iliac side of the sacroiliac joints, consistent with the typical imaging features of “Osteitis Condensans Ilii”.
・Commonly seen in women of childbearing age or those with multiple pregnancies, potentially related to stress changes in the pelvis during pregnancy and childbirth.
・Typical radiographic manifestation is symmetrical lower iliac sclerosis with a normal or only mildly changed joint space.
・Most patients have no significant clinical symptoms, or only mild lumbosacral pain.
・Often presents with joint space narrowing, irregularities, or even erosions on the sacroiliac joints.
・May present with inflammatory back pain, often accompanied by elevated serologic or other inflammatory markers.
・In this case, there is no evident narrowing of the joint space or erosive changes, making this diagnosis less likely.
Considering the patient’s gender, age, parity history, clinical symptoms, and imaging findings, the most likely diagnosis is: Osteitis Condensans Ilii.
In most cases, this condition has a good prognosis and can be self-limiting. If the patient experiences worsening pain or possible inflammatory symptoms in the future, serologic tests (e.g., ESR, CRP) and further imaging (e.g., MRI) may be considered to rule out sacroiliitis.
Overview of Treatment Strategies:
Rehabilitation and Exercise Prescription (Using the FITT-VP Principle):
If severe pain or discomfort occurs during training, adjust the exercise program or seek medical evaluation. Patients at risk of further pelvic or lumbar injury or those with reduced bone density should progress under the guidance of a specialist or physical therapist.
The above report is a reference-based analysis founded on existing information and does not replace in-person diagnosis or professional medical advice. For any questions or changes in symptoms, please consult a relevant specialist or visit a hospital for evaluation.
Osteitis Condensans Ilii