[Myositis ossificans--a rare complication after axillary dissection]

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Post-surgical complications require careful differential diagnosis.
• Malignant melanoma metastasis presents a diagnostic challenge in the axilla.
• Myositis ossificans is a rare benign condition involving bone formation in muscle.

Observation:

• A case presented with myositis ossificans following axillary dissection.
• The clinical and imaging findings mimicked metastatic malignant melanoma.
• This presentation is exceptionally rare in clinical practice.

Findings:

• Histopathological examination confirmed myositis ossificans.
• Distinguishing it from metastasis is crucial for appropriate patient management.
• The ossificans formation occurred in the soft tissues of the axilla.

Implications:

• Awareness of this rare mimicry can prevent misdiagnosis.
• Avoidance of unnecessary surgical procedures is a key clinical implication.
• This case highlights the importance of considering benign mimics in oncologic imaging.