Dystrophic calcifications in case of a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus – case report and literature review

Abstract

Introduction: Cutis calcification is the deposition of calcium in the skin and subcutaneous tissues and is classified into four subsets. Dystrophic calcifications are the most common type of skin calcification, occurring mainly in damaged tissues or in course of autoimmune disease. However, the coexistance of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and soft tissue calcification is described rarely. Aim: This article presents a case of dystrophic calcifications in the buttocks area in a 49-year-old woman with a 17-year history of SLE. Case study: We report a case of 49-year-old women with SLE who developed nodular lesions in the buttock area. The radiological and histopatological examinations of the nodules showed presence of calcifications. The calcium metabolism parameters were in a normal range. The diagnosis of dystrophic calcinosis in the course of SLE was established. Results and discussion: Dystrophic calcifications associated with autoimmune diseases are common, but occur rarely in SLE. It should be noted that patients with SLE can also develop calcifications of different types like metastatic or iatrogenic. Dystrophic calcifications in SLE usually present as small nodules on buttocks or limbs. The pathophysiology remains unclear, however, there are some theories that inflammation and vascular ischemia play a role in its process. Conclusions: Calcifications in case of patients with SLE rarely require treatment. Several pharmacologic and surgical therapies have been tested with variable results. Additional research to establish an accepted treatment algorithm should be conducted.