Calcinosis cutis universalis.
We report the case of a 49-year-old female who complained of hardening of the skin, with onset about 1.5 years before presentation. The laboratory data showed normal biochemistry profile. Routine haematochemical examinations showed slight anaemia, an increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate and negative rheumatological markers. Calcium excretion in a 24-h urine sample was normal, but the phosphate excretion was slightly low. The clinical diagnosis was verified by soft tissue ultrasound examination showing subcutaneous calcifications. X-ray examination of bones evidenced no abnormal calcification. Mammography revealed deep seated bilateral reticular calcifications, even in the axillary region. Histological examination showed calcinosis cutis. On these grounds, the diagnosis of idiopathic universal calcinosis cutis was made. The authors describe the clinical and histological picture and discuss the laboratory findings.