Differential Diagnosis for Calcified Tendinitis

When considering calcified tendinitis as a potential diagnosis, it's essential to evaluate other possible causes that could present with similar symptoms or imaging findings. The differential diagnosis can be organized into the following categories:

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy: This condition often presents with shoulder pain and can be associated with calcifications visible on imaging, making it a common and likely diagnosis when calcified tendinitis is suspected.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder): While not directly related to calcifications, the pain and stiffness associated with adhesive capsulitis could be confused with the symptoms of calcified tendinitis, especially in the shoulder.
  • Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae around joints can cause pain and swelling similar to that experienced with calcified tendinitis, and sometimes bursitis can be associated with calcifications.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Septic Arthritis: Although less likely, septic arthritis is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment. It can present with acute onset of pain, swelling, and decreased range of motion, similar to calcified tendinitis, but is associated with significant morbidity if not promptly addressed.
  • Bone Tumors (e.g., Osteosarcoma): While rare, bone tumors can cause pain and may have associated calcifications. Missing a diagnosis of a bone tumor could have severe consequences.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Tumoral Calcinoses: A rare condition characterized by the presence of calcified masses near joints, which could be mistaken for calcified tendinitis.
  • Chronic Tendon Rupture: In some cases, chronic tendon ruptures can lead to calcification and might mimic the presentation of calcified tendinitis.

Each of these diagnoses has a different set of implications for treatment and prognosis, highlighting the importance of a thorough diagnostic evaluation when calcified tendinitis is suspected.