Calcific tendinitis - Achilles

Case contributed by Chris O'Donnell
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Pain and swelling in the mid Achilles tendon. Employed as a builder thus climbs up and down ladders all day.

Patient Data

Age: 50 years
Gender: Male
ultrasound

Gross calcification within the mid-substance of the Achilles with markedly increased blood flow in the adjacent tendon but no retrocalcaneal bursal distension or inflammation.  Note also marked enthesial bone formation in the calcaneum.

Case Discussion

Unlike the supraspinatus tendon, calcification is associated with features of inflammation ie increased blood flow and swelling. This is a true tendinitis, not just tendinopathy.

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