Dystrophic Calcinosis Cutis in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Abstract

Calcinosis cutis is a disorder of pathologic calcium deposition in the cutaneous and subcutaneous layers of skin. While common in dermatomyositis and scleroderma, calcinosis cutis less frequently occurs in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and is infrequently described in literature. In this report, we discuss the case of a 36-year-old patient with SLE, presenting with vascular compromise, ulceration, and superimposed infection of her left hand as a consequence of severe calcinosis cutis. This report includes a review of the current literature, and highlights the importance of early detection and intervention in preventing disease complications.