Review Question - QID 560

This dialysis-dependent, Caucasian patient has calcifications throughout the abductors of the right hip, making calcinosis of renal failure the most likely diagnosis.

Calcinosis of renal failure is a rare syndrome characterized by calcium depositions in peri-articular soft tissues, which may lead to functional limitations in the joint. Although radiographically and histologically related, unlike tumoral calcinosis, which is a heredity disorder primarily of African-Americans, calcinosis of renal failure is associated with chronic renal failure and long term dialysis. Treatment is primarily medical, consisting of calcium and phosphorus diet restriction, dialysates and phosphate binders.

Buschmann et al presents a case report of tumoral calcinosis and reviews the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment. Authors suggest that tumoral calcinosis must be differentiated from other causes of calcifications.

Figure A shows multi-lobulated, circular masses of calcium around the hip joint, which are characteristic features of tumoral calcinosis.

Illustration A shows the typical appearance of amorphous and cloud-like calcification located in a periarticular distribution around the right shoulder that is seen in tumoral calcinosis.