Isolated Tumoral Calcinosis in the Hip Mimicking Peri-articular Infection: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Introduction: Tumoral calcinosis is a rarely described metabolic condition, characterized by the accumulation of calcium hydroxyapatite crystals in the soft tissues. The purpose of this paper is to present a case of a tumoral calcinosis with uncommon characteristics in order to discuss the diagnosis and treatment options. Case report: We report the case of a 65 years-old patient with a multifactorial avascular necrosis of the femoral head, to which a hip replacement was planned. Due to the images observed preoperatively, infection was ruled out and after the studies; an isolated tumoral calcinosis was identified and confirmed with histopathological findings. Conclusion: Tumoral calcinosis is a benign pathology that can create confusion due to the nonspecific characteristics. Metabolic profile studies and multimodal imaging are recommended to diagnose this condition adequately. In some cases, biopsy or aspiration can also be helpful to confirm the diagnosis.