MR imaging of pediatric musculoskeletal inflammatory and infectious disorders.

Inflammatory and infectious disorders of the skeletally immature extraspinal musculoskeletal system affect the bones, contiguous soft tissues, muscles, and joints. MR imaging of osteomyelitis, soft tissue infection, inflammatory muscle disease, and acute and chronic joint disease are discussed in the context of underlying pathophysiology. Discussion includes imaging optimization, contribution of MR imaging to overall patient management, and differential diagnostic considerations for the pediatric patient.