Coccydynia related to calcium crystal deposition.

STUDY DESIGN: Study of 4 cases of severe coccydynia revealing calcium deposits in the sacrococcygeal and intercoccygeal joints.

OBJECTIVE: To highlight calcium crystal deposition as a cause of sudden-onset coccydynia.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Intervertebral disc calcification in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine is well known, but calcifications in the sacrococcygeal or intercoccygeal joints with symptoms have never been reported.

METHODS: All 4 patients presented with severe, sudden-onset coccydynia. Radiographs of the coccygeal area showed calcific deposits in the sacrococcygeal or intercoccygeal joints. Patients received a short course of oral corticosteroids or steroid injections.

RESULTS: Conservative management provided prompt relief in all but one case. In 2, the resolution of the calcific deposits as seen on follow-up radiography was highly suggestive of their apatite origin.

CONCLUSION: Calcium crystal deposition in the sacrococcygeal or intercoccygeal joints can cause coccydynia. Conservative treatment is effective as a first-line approach.