Update on the treatment of calcinosis in dermatomyositis

Calcinosis is a connective tissue disorder classified into the following four types: metastatic; idiopathic; iatrogenic and dystrophic. Dystrophic calcinosis can occur, for example, in dermatomyositis, mainly in juvenile dermatomyositis, and is characterized by an abnormal deposition of calcium salts in affected skin, subcutaneous tissues, and muscles or tendons, with normal serum levels of calcium and phosphate. The treatment of calcinosis in dermatomyositis remains a challenge, with few descriptions in the literature of low scientific evidence. So far, no therapy has proved to be highly effective in the combat and resolution of that comorbidity. The present study discusses the concept of calcinosis, particularly in dermatomyositis, as well as its treatment described in the literature. (C) 2013 Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.