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This case report detailed the presence of a rare, idiopathic swelling in the masseter that presented as facial asymmetry for ~1 yr prior to evaluation. The swelling was painless and ultimately diagnosed via imaging studies [radiograph, CT and ultrasound]. The calcifications were determined to be benign and localized, hence the diagnosis of “calcinosis circumscripta.” The “treatment of choice” was total surgical removal.

Masseter idiopathic calcinosis circumscripta: A rare condition

Wissal Skhiri, Houaida Allagui, Amel Bouida, Amina Ben Salem, Abir Aouam, Jamel Saad, Randa Salem

ABSTRACT

Calcinosis is defined as a biomineralization occurring in soft tissues leading to ectopic calcification. Isolated and localized calcification in a muscle is rare, and it is called calcinosis circumscripta in opposition to calcinosis universalis which is seen in juvenile dermatomyositis and polymyositis. According to laboratory findings and clinical history, calcinosis circumscripta can be metastatic, dystrophic or idiopathic. The masseter muscle is rarely involved. Pre-operative diagnosis of masseter idiopathic calcinosis is a challenge because of the differential diagnosis. Here, we report a case of 22 year-old woman who presented with swelling over left middle third of her face. Clinical history, morphologic and laboratory examinations helped in the identification of such a rare diagnosis.