Calcification of the linea aspera: A systematic narrative review

Abstract

This review aims to consolidate the published demographics, clinical and radiological features of calcific tendonitis affecting the linea aspera. Using the PRISMA protocol, 55 clinical cases were extracted from 19 shortlisted papers. In a patient presenting with thigh and/or hip pain, radiologic evaluation should commence with plain radiographs; subsequent cross-sectional imaging, if necessary. Our review of the literature indicates that calcific tendonitis can be safely diagnosed when intratendinous calcification is observed in the region of the linea aspera with cortical erosion but no discrete soft tissue mass. Keywords: Calcification, Osteolysis, Tendon, Femur, Imaging