Calcinosis circumscripta

Calcinosis circumscripta presents is a condition involving deposition of calcium deposition in the subcutaneous tissues, muscles and fascia. It is considered a localised form of calcinosis cutis universalis most often seen in the hands and feet.

Clinical presentation

Patients present with firm white dermal papules, plaques or subcutaneous nodules which are found in varying distribution. They commonlycan ulcerate extrudingand extrude a chalky white material.

It isClassically, women are affected in up to 80% of cases.

Pathology

Aetiology

Although most often seen in early stages of polymyositis, dermatomyositis, SLE and CREST syndrome but can also be seen following trauma, with connective tissue disorders, insect bites or tumours. Any type of metabolic calcification can also potentially cause calcinosis circumscripta. It is often associated with chronic renal failure.

The pattern of calcinosis circumscripta is usually less extensive than in tumoral calcinosis. The adjacent bone may erode ifcases are idiopathic there is an underyling rheumatic disorderassociation with Raynaud's syndrome, scleroderma or dermatomyositis in up to 40% of cases.