A RARE PRESENTATION OF ANKLE ARTHROPATHY COMPLICATED BY TUMORAL CALCINOSIS AND OSTEOMYELITIS
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Keywords
foot and ankle; malignant tumours; diagnosis; osteomyelitis
Abstract
Background: Ankle arthropathy can lead to joint deformity and functional impairment, and its progression may be complicated by rare conditions like tumoral calcinosis, characterized by periarticular calcium deposits. When associated with osteomyelitis, it poses significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. The simultaneous occurrence of these three conditions is extremely uncommon, warranting early recognition and careful management.
Case report: A 55-year-old female presented with left ankle and foot pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Imaging revealed severe ankle arthropathy with multiple periarticular calcific deposits suggestive of secondary tumoral calcinosis. MRI confirmed extensive erosive changes, and the patient was planned for triple arthrodesis. Intraoperatively, purulent material was noted, and histopathology confirmed osteomyelitis. Due to persistent infection and proximal spread, a below-knee amputation was performed to control the infection and prevent systemic complications.
Conclusion: The coexistence of ankle arthropathy, tumoral calcinosis, and osteomyelitis is rare and can lead to severe joint destruction. Early recognition and aggressive management are essential to prevent complications, and in advanced cases, amputation may be necessary to control infection and protect patient health.
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Kiran Kumar S D
Junior resident at Department of Orthopaedics, BIMS Belagavi
Prakash Wali
HOD at Department of Orthopaedics, BIMS Belagavi
Santosh Mared
Assistant Professor at Department of Orthopaedics, BIMS Belagavi
