Myositis Ossificans of the Thighs Due to Repeated Assault: A Case Report

Myositis ossificans (MO) is defined as a lesion where abnormal ossification forms in soft tissues, such as muscle, fascia, and ligament, usually as a result of trauma. It commonly appears in areas such as the thigh, hip, and elbow, though it can affect any part of the body. In the forensic field, MO resulting from trauma is reported to be valuable evidence of repeated physical abuse. This case report describes a deceased adult male with an intellectual disability, whose cause of death was multiple injuries from assault. Postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) and autopsy findings revealed MO of both thighs associated with repeated physical abuse. This case also showed typical findings of MO on PMCT imaging, characterized by well-defined, high-density lesions within the quadriceps. Adults with intellectual disabilities are at high risk of abuse and assault. Therefore, autopsy findings of MO can serve as important evidence in forensic practice, considering the possibility of repeated abuse.