# Radiographic Evolution of Contralateral Asymptomatic Incomplete Atypical Femoral Fractures in Autoimmune Disease Patients

## TL;DR

This study examines how asymptomatic incomplete femoral fractures in autoimmune disease patients evolve over time and identifies imaging markers that predict progression.

## Contribution

The study identifies a transverse radiolucent line as a predictive imaging biomarker for progression of incomplete atypical femoral fractures in autoimmune disease patients.

## Key findings

- Most asymptomatic incomplete fractures remained stable or regressed over time.
- A transverse radiolucent line at baseline was the only lesion that progressed.
- Discontinuation of bisphosphonates and use of teriparatide may aid in lesion stabilization.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: Atypical femoral fracture (AFF) represents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge, particularly in autoimmune disease patients receiving long-term bisphosphonate (BP) and glucocorticoid (GC) therapy. Although bilateral AFF is common, the radiographic evolution of asymptomatic incomplete lesions identified at the time of a complete fracture remains insufficiently defined. This study aimed to characterize the natural history and imaging biomarkers associated with progression in this biologically homogeneous high-risk population. Methods: Ten female autoimmune disease patients with complete AFF and asymptomatic incomplete contralateral lesions were retrospectively evaluated over a mean 59 months. Serial radiographs were assessed for cortical beaking, periosteal flaring, and transverse radiolucent lines. All patients discontinued BP therapy postoperatively; teriparatide was administered when tolerated. Results: Six lesions regressed, three remained stable, and one progressed—this progressing case being the only limb with a transverse radiolucent line at baseline. No patient developed symptoms or sustained a complete fracture on the contralateral side. Radiographic remodeling occurred independently of symptoms. BP discontinuation and, when tolerated, teriparatide appeared to contribute to lesion stabilization, although statistical significance was not achieved. Conclusions: In autoimmune patients with severe long-term BP and GC exposure, most asymptomatic incomplete AFF identified at the time of contralateral complete fracture remains stable or improves under conservative management. A transverse radiolucent line is the most decisive imaging biomarker predictive of progression and warrants intensified surveillance or consideration of prophylactic fixation. Larger cohorts are needed to refine risk stratification algorithms and optimize diagnostic and management strategies.