Calcinosis Circumscripta

Adrien Hespel


Publication Date: 2016-06-30

Details

Service Radiology

Modality: Radiographs

Species: Canine

Area: Limb

History

9 year old female spayed collie. Hard swelling on the toes. Previous amputation of the 5th digit.

4 images

    
   

Findings

Orthogonal and oblique radiographs of the left manus are available for interpretation.

There is a large amount of well defined lobulated mineral formation on the lateral aspect of the manus, spanning from where the phalanges of the 5th digit used to be up to the 3rd digit medially. The distal aspect of the metacarpus of the 5th digit contains a well-defined "C-shaped" area of radiolucency. There is no evidence of lysis affecting any of the digits. Overall there is no to minimal swelling of the soft tissues at this level.

The phalanges of the 5th digit are absent , consistent with the history of previous amputation.

Diagnosis

Mineralized area most consistent with calcinosis circumscripta. No evidence of underlying agressive lesion.

Previous amputation of the phalanges of the 5th digit.

Pathology Report

Calcinosis circumscripta is an uncommon syndrome in dogs and is characterized by the deposition of calcium salts in a nodular pattern within the subcutaneous tissues. Calcinosis circumscripta most commonly occurs at sites of previous trauma, pressure points, and bony prominences It has also been reported to occur in the tongue. Large-breed dogs < 2 years of age are most often affected, with German Shepherd Dogs being predisposed. Lesions are often solitary, but multiple lesions are seen as well. Treatment consists of surgical removal of affected tissues and is usually curative. The etiology of calcinosis circumscripta may include such pathophysiologic processes as dystrophic, metastatic, iatrogenic, and idiopathic mineralization. (JAVMA, Vol 239, No. 5, September 1, 2011)

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