FIBRODYSPLASIA OSSIFICANS PROGRESSIVA IN CHILDREN:FIVE CASES AND REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

ObjectiveTo describe the clinical manifestations and radiographic characteristics of fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP). MethodsThe radiographs and lesion photographs of five patients aged between 23 months and 17 years diagnosed as FOP were presented and the literatures were reviewed. ResultsClinical features were shortened great toes at birth, episodic soft tissue swellings, pain in the subcutaneous tissues of neck, back, shoulders, and extremities, hard lumps at back and spine, and restricted mobility of neck and arms. Radiological findings included short digit with hallus valgus, scoliosis, exostoses on many bones, and ossification of ligament. The characteristic subcutaneous soft tissues included masses or ossifications of neck, back, extremities, and shoulders. ConclusionThe short terminal phalanges of the thumbs and intermittently progressive heterotopic ossifications of the striated muscles and soft tissues suggest that FOP should promptly get early genetic consultation.