[Apophyseolysis, evulsion fractures and osteochondropathy of the anterior inferior iliac spine (author's transl)].

Evulsion fractures of the anterior inferior iliac spine in adults usually are the result of sudden contraction of the rectus femoris muscle during sporting activities, particularly football. In children, before fusion of the apophysis, there may be an apophyseolysis. This may result in a chondropathy because of abnormal development of the frequently multiple ossification centres. In contrast to the relatively frequent evulsion fractures of the anterior superior iliac spine, such an event is very rare in the anterior inferior iliac spine. Three illustrative cases are described showing the typical combination of history, localisation, pain recurrence during exercise and x-ray changes, which usually consist of a curved osseous structure separate from the iliac bone. These findings permit a correct diagnosis.