J Korean Soc Med Ultrasound.  1997 Jun;16(2):187-191.

Sonographic Evaluation of Interdigital (Morton) Neuroma

• Yoon SM
• Choi YS
• Yoon MJ
• Song MK
• Yoon YG
• Lee KT
• Ahn HS
• Cha JH
• Kim YS

Abstract

PURPOSE: To describe the ultrasonographic features of interdigital (Morton) neuroma and to determine the usefulness of sonography in the diagnosis of neuroma. WATERIALS & METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the location, size and sonographic findings in 25(39 cases) patients (21 women and 4 men) in whom neuromas were clinically and/or surgically (10 patients) confirmd.
RESULTS
Fifteen (60%) patients had solitary lesions, while 10 patients had multiple lesions. Bilateral lesions were found in 8 of the latter. Twenty three(59%) masses were found in the 3rd intermetatarsal space, fourteen (36%) masses in the 2nd space, and one (2.5%)mass in the 1st and 4th space, respectively. The average size of the masses was 5.5 mm with range of 4~7 mm. The neuromas were manifested sonographically as well defined round or ovoid hypoechoic masses on coronal images. The posterior acoustic shadowing was not seen in all cases. Occasionally linear or punctate hyperechoic materials were seen within the masses. On sagittal images the masses were slightly elongated parallel to the metatarsals. The preoperative ultrasound accurately predicted the presence and the location of neuromas in all cases. CONCLUSION: The intermetatarsal location and sonographic characteristics are specific for neuroma. Therefore, sonography can be used as an adjunctive method to the clinical diagnosis of neuroma.

MeSH Terms

Acoustics
Diagnosis
Female
Humans
Metatarsal Bones
Neuroma*
Retrospective Studies
Shadowing (Histology)
Ultrasonography*