Calcific myonecrosis of the leg: report of three patients presenting with infection.

BACKGROUND: Calcific myonecrosis is a rare late complication of trauma, affecting almost exclusively the lower limb. Its radiologic appearance is characteristic. Superimposed infection usually is a sequela of biopsy. CASE REPORT: We present three patients, one with bilateral involvement, who presented with calcific myonecrosis and spontaneous infection. Three infections were attributable to a single microorganism: Enterobacter cloacae, Staphylococcus hominis, and S. haemolyticus were recovered. Multiple microorganisms were responsible in the other case. Treatment consisted of radical surgical debridement and antibiotics. The incision was closed over a suction drain, where possible, or left open to close by secondary intention.
CONCLUSIONS: Calcific myonecrosis may present as infection without any obvious precipitating factor, and it should be included in the differential diagnosis in cases of soft tissue infection of the leg.