Acute calcific tendinitis of the longus colli muscle: spectrum of CT appearances and anatomical correlation

Abstract

Calcific tendinitis of the longus colli muscle is a retropharyngeal inflammatory process of the named prevertebral muscle that can present acutely with debilitating symptoms. The cross-sectional imaging appearances of this rare condition, although rather specific, can be somewhat misleading. This is, in part, due to a lack of familiarity with the normal anatomy and pathology of the prevertebral space, as well as the variation in the imaging appearances that can be found. Definitive radiological diagnosis is often paramount to avoid unnecessary and potentially dangerous intervention. Three cases of acute calcific tendinitis of the longus colli muscle are presented, with the salient anatomy and variation in CT appearances described.