Calcinoid pus presenting as an abscess in a patient with limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis

Abstract

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune, connective tissue disorder of unknown aetiology.1 The prevalence of the disease is 19 cases in a million and it is more common in women aged 30-50 years. SSc is characterised by widespread fibrosis of the skin, various internal organs or both of varying degree of severity. In limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis, previously called CREST Syndrome (calcinosis, Raynaud's phenomenon, oesophageal dysmotility, sclerodactyly, and telangiectasia syndrome), the skin tightening occurs distal to the elbows or knees and the face, while in diffuse SSc, the skin of the proximal extremities and trunk is involved. Current treatment for SSc is directed towards managing complications and providing symptomatic relief. In addition to disease-modifying treatments, surgical intervention may be required in infected lesions.