Xeroradiography of bone tumors

Xeroradiography of benign and malignant bone tumors was performed in 48 patients, 45 of whom also underwent conventional film radiography. The diagnosis was confirmed by surgery and histologic examination in 42 cases (87%).Xeroradiography was found to be more effective than film radiography in 25 cases and less effective in representing bone tumors in 8 cases (18%). The two techniques were substantially equivalent for diagnostic purposes in 15 cases (33%).The main features of the xeroradiographic picture of bones are reviewed with emphasis on the differences between positive and negative modes. Positive xeroradiographs may be useful for the study of trabecular structure while negative xeroradiographs offer a good view of soft tissues.Xeroradiography is not suggested as a first choice examination, but as an useful second-line technique in selected cases with minute lesions or extraosseous malignant spread.