This is a “Rugger-jersey spine“, present in patients with severe secondary hyperparathyroidism. The alternating sclerotic vertebral end-plates and the radiolucent centers of the vertebral body produce an appearance similar to an English rugby sweater. This radiograph also shows dense calcifications along the aorta. Extra-skeletal calcifications are common in patients with advanced renal failure.
Renal Osteodystrophy of the Spine
