Harris Growth Arrest Lines

Introduction

Metaphyseal Harris growth arrest lines (or lines of Park) result from a temporary interruption to normal longitudinal bone growth. These lines are usually incidental findings of no clinical significance, but may cause confusion. Radiographers should be aware of these lines and their significance.

Case 1

5 year old boy with a history of osteogenesis imperfecta. There are multiple growth arrest lines with the following features the growth arrest lines are transversely orientated and match the contour of the epiphysis the lines are parallel The lines closest to the epiphysis are thickest and more widely spaced The further the lines are away from the epiphysis, the more the lines become broken, irregular, and indistinct The tibial, fibular and femoral lines show different spacings reflecting different rates of bone growth. It has been argued that these lines seen in OGI patients are a separate entity from what might be called normal growth arrest lines. [Muderis et al (2007)] has termed these 'Zebra lines' associated with Pamidronate therapy- this is used in children for the treatment of low bone mineral density.