Heterotopic Ossification in a Newborn: A Case Report

Introduction: Heterotopic ossification is defined as the formation of trabecular bone that forms outside the normal sites of the skeletal structure, materializing in soft tissue where it does not usually exist. Methods/Case Report: This is a case report of a 27-day-old baby with a diagnosis of DiGeorge syndrome who developed heterotopic ossification on the dorsum of his right hand. Discussion: Heterotopic ossification in the pediatric population is a rare finding. Very few cases were published in the literature, and we find it important to increase the knowledge on such cases and discuss possible causes with the treatment used with our patient. Results: General treatments of heterotopic ossification include ruling out superimposed infection, physiotherapy to prevent joint involvement, warm compressors during the active phase of development of heterotopic ossification. If the swelling persists to the point that it interferes significantly with the functional capacity of the patient or becomes a cosmetic concern, the only treatment option remaining would be surgery.