Extensive neuritis ossificans of the sciatic nerve: Systematic review and illustrative case

Background: Neuritis ossificans is a rare disease described as heterotopic calcification that occurs in neural tissue such as nerves.

Method: A systematic review of the literature was done in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. An illustrative case of neuritis ossificans of the sciatic nerve in an 18 year old man was also reported.

Results: The review yielded 17 previously reported cases of neuritis ossificans. There was a male predominance and the most common locations were the median and tibial nerves. Only 2 previous cases involved the sciatic nerve. Most were treated with excision with positive outcomes. Our case was treated initially with a biopsy, then partial excision and symptomatic management with NSAIDs and GABA inhibitors. He had a good outcome at 13 months follow-up.

Conclusion: Neuritis ossificans is a rare disease with unclear pathophysiology that has been theorized to involve neuroinflammation. Treatment consists of excision, if deemed possible, and symptom control.