Myositis ossificans in the soft tissues of the hand

Abstract

Myositis ossificans is a benign soft tissue tumor of unknown etiology characterized by the rapid development of swelling and pain. The occurrence of this lesion in the hand is uncommon. Initially, the roentgenograms are normal, but progressively a bony mass can be visualized in the soft tissues. The lesion is often mistaken for infection or malignancy. The definitive diagnosis is confirmed by biopsy which shows a typical "zone phenomenon" with three well differentiated areas of pathologic findings. A case is presented to illustrate the classic clinical evolution, radiologic findings and treatment of myositis ossificans affecting the soft tissues of the hand. The surgical treatment obtained an almost complete remission of symptoms and pathologic signs.