Ultrasound in musculoskeletal disorder - A new horizon in rheumatology

Early detection of rheumatological diseases is an important step in prevention of permanent damage and deformities. Conventional radiography has traditionally been used as a diagnostic tool in rheumatology but is incapable to detect early changes in the periarticular tissues and bones. MRI has gained undoubted superiority for detection of soft tissue pathologies and early bony inflammatory changes but its widespread use is restricted by multiple factors. Ultrasonography (USG) is a promising tool for bridging this gap. Though the use of USG in the field of Rheumatology is almost three decades old, recent advancement in technology has made it an attractive imaging tool for early detection various musculoskeletal disorders. The utility of USG is not only limited to the detection of synovitis but has expanded to detect various extra skeletal manifestations of rheumatological diseases. Absence of radiation hazards, reasonable cost, and widespread availability are the added advantages of USG. In this article the promising role of USG in musculoskeletal diseases has been reviewed.