Objectives: Since its first description several years ago in the elderly subject, calcification of the Cooper ligament is often considered as a rare anecdotal phenomenon. We present the radiographic presentation which is often not well known.
Methods: Two experienced radiologists examined independently a series of 100 consecutive X-rays of the pelvis performed in a population of elderly subjects (mean age 84.4 +/- 9.2), looking for calcification of the Cooper ligament.
Results: Calcification of the Cooper ligament was observed on 7 of the 100 images of the pelvis. There was no significant difference in age, sex, or reason for ordering the examination between subjects with calcification and those without calcifications. Arterial calcifications were observed at an equal frequency. The usual aspect of the Cooper ligament was a fine opaque line following along the upper border of the iliopectinate crest. Oblique views visualized the calcification better. The line of calcification was either continuous of fragmented and was bilateral in all 7 cases.
Conclusion: These images are apparently of no pathological significance. Clinicians should however be aware of the radiographic presentation in order to avoid confusion with visceral calcification or periosteal deposits.