Presentation
Worsening neck pain and odynophagia for 3 days, on and off neck pain for 2 months without associated trauma or fall. No fever.
Patient Data
Irregular, slightly amorphous calcification along the anterior margin of the C1-C2 articulation
Hypodensity consistent with fluid/edema in the upper retropharyngeal space
Pharyngeal tonsils are mildly prominent, possibly reactive
Case Discussion
Acute calcific tendinitis of the longus colli muscle is a rare and benign condition. Common presentations include neck pain, neck stiffness, odynophagia, and, in some cases, fever and leukocytosis. Important differentials include infection such as retropharyngeal abscess. It is important that radiologists are aware of this condition and its typical appearance on imaging to avoid misdiagnosis which can lead to inadequate treatment.
This case is submitted in collaboration with Dr. Aguilera, Loma Linda University.
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