Retropharyngeal calcific tendinitis: case report and review of literature

Retropharyngeal calcific tendinitis, also known as acute calcific prevertebral tendinitis or longus colli tendinitis, is an uncommon benign condition presenting as acute neck pain. Clinically, it can be misdiagnosed as retropharyngeal abscess, traumatic injury, or infectious spondylitis. The diagnosis is made radiographically by an amorphous calcification anterior to C1–C2 and prevertebral soft tissue swelling. We present three cases of this uncommon condition to illustrate the classic findings on plain film, CT, and MRI. Recognition of the pathognomonic imaging appearance allows for easy diagnosis preventing unnecessary tests and treatment.