Limbus vertebra
A limbus vertebra is a bone defect in the vertebral body bearing a radiographic similarity to a vertebral fracture. The anterior-superior corner of a single vertebra is the common site for this defect although it can also be seen at the inferior corner as well as the posterior margin but very rarely. Anatomically, it is assumed to be an intra-vertebral body herniation of the disc material occurring during childhood, when the ring apophysis has not yet fused. It was first described by Schmorl in 1927 and later in detail by Niedner.
Viewed in a lateral radiograph, it appears as a triangular shaped bone fragment, not unlike an anterior lip fracture, but with softer edges.
This incidental radiographic finding is usually benign with no treatment necessary. In rare instances, a posterior limbus vertebra has been described causing radiculopathy due to nerve root compression.
