Causes and risk factors:
Calcinosis cutis is caused due to deposition of calcium in skin. The exact mechanism as to how and why the calcium is deposited in the skin is still not known. Hypercalcemia and hyperphosphatemia are contributing factors. Studies have shown that increased extracellular levels of calcium causes increase in the intracellular levels which then causes crystalline precipitation.
Clinical presentation:
Calcinosis cutis is of 4 types – dystrophic, metastatic, iatrogenic and idiopathic. There are some other rare forms of calcinosis cutis like transplant-associated calcinosis cutis, calcinosis cutis universalis, calcinosis cutis circumscripta, and tumoral calcinosis. In some cases, the patient remains asymptomatic while in a few patients, gradual development of complaints are seen. Appearance of a papule, plaque, or nodule which is white in color is seen. These lesions contain a yellowish white grit material which is oozed out as the lesion ulcerates. Eventually this skin lesion can lead to gangrene formation. In severe cases, vascular calcification is seen. In idiopathic type there is absence of systemic disease and calcification is restricted to a particular part or localized. Dystrophic type is seen in areas where the skin is damaged. This damage can either be caused due to trauma, infection, tumors, acne, or panniculitis, etc. Metastatic calcinosis cutis occurs due to abnormal calcium and phosphate metabolism. It is often associated with certain conditions like Paget’s diseases, hyperparathyroidism, or excess of vitamin D intake. Iatrogenic type can be secondary to certain procedures like parenteral administration of calcium or phosphate.
Investigations:
Symptoms narrated by the patient are taken into consideration. A general examination is carried out by the doctor. Certain investigations like routine blood test, serum calcium and phosphate levels, skin biopsies, etc., are done. Other investigations can also be advised.
Treatment:
In case of presence of an underlying cause, it needs to be treated first. Administration of medication is done. It comprises of corticosteroids, magnesium and aluminum antacids. Surgical removal of the lesion needs to be done.
Other modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up the symptom. Taking into consideration the symptoms in a holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms resulting from calcinosis cutis.
