Tumoral calcinosis producing peripheral nerve compression of the suprascapular nerve: A case report

Radiol Case Rep. 2024 Nov 9;20(1):670-673. doi: 10.1016/j.radcr.2024.09.111. eCollection 2025 Jan.

Abstract

Tumoral calcinosis is a rare disorder characterized by the deposition of calcium phosphate crystals in periarticular soft tissues, often presenting as asymptomatic masses. However, these calcific masses can occasionally cause significant morbidity by compressing adjacent neurovascular structures. We report a rare case of tumoral calcinosis leading to peripheral nerve compression of the suprascapular nerve in a 55-year-old female. The patient presented with progressive shoulder pain and weakness, significantly affecting her daily activities. Imaging studies, including X-ray, CT, and MRI, revealed large, calcified masses in the scapular region compressing the suprascapular nerve. This case highlights the importance of considering nerve compression in the differential diagnosis of shoulder pain with muscular weakness in tumoral calcinosis. Surgical decompression of the nerve and excision of the calcified masses resulted in significant pain relief and partial recovery of shoulder function. This report underscores the critical role of imaging in the diagnosis and management of tumoral calcinosis and the potential for favorable outcomes with timely surgical intervention.

Keywords: CT scan; Idiopathic; MRI; Suprascapular nerve compression; Tumoral calcinosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports