Heterotopic Para-Articular Ossification in a Child Following Flame Burns

Introduction

Heterotopic bone formation, ormyositis ossificans circumscripta in Latin, is a rare, but well-known complication of severe burns[1]. Its occurrence following burns was first described in the English literature by Johnson[2]. Pain, tenderness, joint stiffness and even permanent disability may result if this pathological ossification occurs around joints[4].

The most common sites of heterotopic bone formation are the major joints and large muscle groups[4] [5]. The elbow is the most frequently involved joint in most burn case series[4].

It is necessary to consider the presence of heterotopic para-articular ossification around the elbow in any burns patient who complains of limitation of elbow movement or pain. This should be suspected even if there is no burn around the elbow, since the calcification may be as a result of metastatic calcification[2]. Unless a radiograph is taken routinely, ossification may not be recognised.

References

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