Round # 7

• Back to Clinical History and Radiographs
• Back to Radiographic Findings

Diagnosis and Discussion

Correct Diagnosis: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus with Diffuse Idiopathic Calcinosis (calcinosis cutis)

Discussion:
Diffuse soft tissue calcification (calcinosis cutis) is a rare complication of systemic lupus erythematosus, and resembles the calcification that is more commonly noted in systemic sclerosis and dermatomyositis. It tends to develop in patients diagnosed with SLE at a young age. The calcification in SLE has a predilection for the lower extremities, and can cause both diffuse and nodular densities in the soft tissues. These calcific densities are prone to ulceration and infection. The cause of calcinosis cutis is unknown, and treatment is largely aimed at controlling local symptoms and infections. Drug therapy with bisphosphonates, and surgical excision for localized lesions, have been attempted with varying degrees of success.

References:

1. Quismorio FP, Dubois EL, Chandor SB. Soft-tissue calcification in systemic lupus erythematosus. Arch Dermatol 111(3):352-6, 1975
2. Rothe MJ, Grant-Kels JM, Rothfield NF. Extensive calcinosis cutis with systemic lupus erythematosus. Arch Dermatol 126(8):1060-3, 1990.
3. Cousins MA, Jones DB, Whyte MP, Monafo WW. Surgical management of calcinosis cutis universalis in systemic lupus erythematosus. Arthritis Rheum 40(3):570-2, 1997.
4. Resnick D. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. In: Resnick D, ed. Diagnosis of bone and joint disorders 3rd ed. Philadelphia, London, Toronto, Montreal, Sydney, Tokyo: Saunders, 1276-1279, 1995.

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