Calcific myonecrosis of the leg: report of three patients presenting with infection

Calcific myonecrosis is a rare late complication of trauma, affecting almost exclusively the lower limb. Its radiologic appearance is characteristic. Superimposed infection usually is a sequela of biopsy.

We present three patients, one with bilateral involvement, who presented with calcific myonecrosis and spontaneous infection. Three infections were attributable to a single microorganism: Enterobacter cloacae, Staphylococcus hominis, and S. haemolyticus were recovered. Multiple microorganisms were responsible in the other case. Treatment consisted of radical surgical debridement and antibiotics. The incision was closed over a suction drain, where possible, or left open to close by secondary intention.

Calcific myonecrosis may present as infection without any obvious precipitating factor, and it should be included in the differential diagnosis in cases of soft tissue infection of the leg.