Whole-body Bone Scan in the Diagnosis and Treatment of SAPHO Syndrome.

Synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis, and osteomyelitis (SAPHO) syndrome is rare disease of unknown pathogenesis. Its diagnosis and treatment are difficult. There is no standardised treatment for SAPHO syndrome, and the results of empirical therapy are unpredictable. The whole-body bone scan may help evaluate the efficacy of SAPHO syndrome treatment. The case of a 52-year Chinese male, affected by SAPHO syndrome, is presented and discussed in this report. After the patient received methotrexate, prednisone and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for six months, his clinical symptoms and whole body bone scan signs improved. Key Words: SAPHO syndrome, Whole-body bone scintigraphy, Treatment efficacy.