[Pseudoseptical myositis ossificans in spinal cord injuried patients]

Abstract

Context: Neurogenic myositis ossificans or para-osteo-arthropathy are part of heterotopic ossifications. They concern mostly spinal cord injured or cerebral injured patients. They mostly target the hip and can lead to local or general inflammatory signs which can mimic severe sepsis. We detail the frequent septic like symptomatology and the relevance of echography to make the diagnosis and to start adapted therapy.

Method: We conducted a retrospective study from seven patients hospitalized in infectious disease department for suspicion of septical myositis and we compared this cohort with available data.

Results: They all have inflammatory syndrome and radiological signs. Diagnosis can be made early by echography, MRI or tomodensitometry. X-ray signs are delayed.

Conclusion: Myositis ossificans can have a septical presentation but therapy is, at first, medical with non steroid anti inflammatory drugs and no antibiotic therapy.