Parasymphyseal insufficiency fractures of the os pubis

Twelve parasymphyseal insufficiency fractures of the os pubis are described in eight osteopenic postmenopausal women, three of whom had rheumatoid arthritis. The fractures involved both right and left pubic bones in three women. Radiographically lesions often appear deceptively destructive and malignant. In six patients, biopsy was performed and showed no tumor. Biopsy can be avoided in an osteopenic woman with recent increased activity, pubic pain, and the characteristic pubic lesion.