Photopenic Defect in Proximal Humerus: Causes & Diagnosis

A photopenic defect within the proximal right humerus is an area of decreased bone density seen on a bone scan. This can be a sign of several different conditions, including:

- Bone cancer

- Infection (osteomyelitis)

- Avascular necrosis (bone death due to lack of blood supply)

- Trauma (injury)

- Paget's disease of bone (a chronic bone disorder)

- A cyst or tumor

The exact cause of the photopenic defect will need to be determined by a doctor with further tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, or bone biopsies.