Imaging in calcific tendinitis of linea aspera: A case report and review of literature

Abstract

Linea aspera, the osseous ridge in the upper posterior femur, offers attachment to multiple muscles and tendons forming a fibroentheses. Deposition of calcium hydroxyapatite crystal and subsequent inflammation leads to tendinitis and calcification. This process is relatively rare at linea aspera but is a cause of pain and movement restriction. Radiographs are many times misleading as the linea aspera irregularity and calcific proliferation mimic irregular periosteal reaction associated with surface bone malignancies. MRI and CT are complementary and problem-solving. Awareness of the specific location and imaging features aids in the diagnosis of this condition which is frequently managed by a conservative approach avoiding the need for invasive procedures like biopsy for diagnosis. This case report depicts classical imaging features of this entity on multiple modalities.