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Published on: December 23, 2022
[Calcifying tendinitis with osseous involvement : A diagnostic challenge].
J Freyschmidt1, Ch Seyffert2, A Sternberg3
1Beratungsstelle und Referenzzentrum für Osteoradiologie, Klinikum Bremen-Mitte, Oberneulander Landstr. 58, 28355, Bremen, Deutschland. Freyschmidt@radiologie-freyschmidt.de.
Computed tomography (CT) is superior to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for visualizing bone erosion in calcifying tendinitis. CT accurately detects calcifications and bone defects, crucial for diagnosing this painful condition.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Orthopedics
- Musculoskeletal Imaging
Background:
- Calcifying tendinitis involves tendon degeneration, necrosis, and calcification.
- Rarely, it can lead to bone erosion and invasion, causing severe pain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the radiological visualization of pathoanatomical changes in calcifying tendinitis.
- To compare the diagnostic reliability of radiographs, MRI, and CT in detecting bone involvement.
Main Methods:
- Investigated 11 patients with calcifying tendinitis (8 upper extremity, 3 lower extremity).
- Assessed diagnostic accuracy of radiographs, MRI, and CT.
- Analyzed lesions in various tendons including supraspinatus, gluteus, and biceps.
Main Results:
- MRI has limitations in visualizing calcifications and ossifications, leading to interpretational uncertainty.
- CT is the preferred method, clearly demonstrating calcified tendon portions, cortical defects, and medullary calcification.
- CT effectively visualizes bone erosion and invasion associated with calcifying tendinitis.
Conclusions:
- CT is the imaging modality of choice for diagnosing calcifying tendinitis with bone involvement.
- Accurate radiological assessment is crucial for understanding and managing severe cases of calcifying tendinitis.
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