Paradiaphyseal calcific tendinitis with cortical bone erosion.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the clinical, radiologic, and histologic features of calcific tendinitis with cortical bone erosion.

METHODS

The records of 6 patients with paradiaphyseal calcific tendinitis and adjacent bone cortex erosion were reviewed.

RESULTS

Calcific tendinitis involved the linea aspera in 4 patients, the bicipital groove in 1 patient, and the deltoid insertion in another. Calcium deposits were associated with cortical bone erosions, revealed on plain radiographs in 4 patients and computed tomography scans in 2. Bone scans were performed in 2 patients and showed local hyperfixation of the isotope. In 4 patients, suspicion of a neoplasm led to a biopsy. Calcium deposits appeared to be surrounded by a foreign body reaction with numerous giant cells. Apatite crystals were identified by transmission electron microscopy and elemental analysis in 1 surgical sample.

CONCLUSION

Paradiaphyseal calcific tendinitis with cortical bone erosion is an uncommon presentation of apatite deposition disease.