Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2026

10:51
Isolation and Culture of Primary Mouse Keratinocytes from Neonatal and Adult Mouse Skin
Published on: July 14, 2017
Calcinosis cutis
1Dept. of Dermatology, Bharti Vidyapeeth, Deemed University Medical College, Dhankwadi, Pune-411 043.
Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology
|July 24, 2007
Summary
Idiopathic calcinosis cutis, a rare skin condition, presented as chalky white material discharge from elbow swellings in a young male. Skin biopsy confirmed calcium deposition without underlying metabolic or connective tissue disorders.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pathology
- Mineral Metabolism
Background:
- Calcinosis cutis is characterized by calcium salt deposition in the skin.
- It can be associated with various systemic conditions, including connective tissue disorders and renal failure.
- Idiopathic calcinosis cutis is a rare subtype with no identifiable underlying cause.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report an unusual case of idiopathic calcinosis cutis presenting with multiple cutaneous swellings and a draining sinus.
- To highlight the diagnostic approach and histopathological findings in this rare condition.
Main Methods:
- Clinical presentation and patient history.
- Dermatological examination of swellings and sinus.
- Skin biopsy for histopathological examination.
- Exclusion of systemic causes through relevant investigations.
Main Results:
- A 22-year-old male presented with multiple elbow and knee swellings and a discharging sinus.
- Histopathology revealed calcium deposition in the dermis and subcutis.
- No evidence of connective tissue disease or abnormal mineral metabolism was found.
Conclusions:
- The case was diagnosed as idiopathic calcinosis cutis based on clinical and histopathological findings.
- This presentation underscores the importance of considering idiopathic calcinosis cutis in cases of unexplained cutaneous calcification.
Related Concept Videos
Skeleton and Calcium Homeostasis
Calcium is not only the most abundant mineral in bone but also the most abundant mineral in the human body. Calcium ions are needed for bone mineralization, tooth health, heart rate regulation and strength of contraction, blood coagulation, the contraction of smooth and skeletal muscle cells, and the regulation of nerve impulse conduction. The average calcium level in the blood is about 10 mg/dL. When the body cannot maintain this level, a person will experience hypo or hypercalcemia.
Role of Skin in Vitamin D Synthesis
The skin plays a crucial role in the synthesis of vitamin D, a vital nutrient for various physiological processes in the body. Vitamin D is unique because it can be synthesized in the skin through a series of chemical reactions triggered by exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation from sunlight.
The solar UV B rays (290-315 nm) are absorbed by the skin, and 7-dehydrocholesterol (provitamin D3) photolyzes it to previtamin D3, which undergoes a rapid transformation to vitamin D3(cholecalciferol).
The solar UV B rays (290-315 nm) are absorbed by the skin, and 7-dehydrocholesterol (provitamin D3) photolyzes it to previtamin D3, which undergoes a rapid transformation to vitamin D3(cholecalciferol).
Synthesis and Functions of Calcitonin
Calcitonin, a vital polypeptide hormone, regulates calcium levels within body fluids. It is released by the parafollicular cells, also known as C cells, situated in the follicular epithelium of the thyroid gland. Calcitonin responds to fluctuations in blood calcium levels and the influence of gastrointestinal hormones like gastrin and cholecystokinin.
The exact mechanisms by which calcitonin operates in calcium homeostasis remain elusive, but its significance is evident in several vital...
The exact mechanisms by which calcitonin operates in calcium homeostasis remain elusive, but its significance is evident in several vital...
Changes in Skin Color: Clinical Perspectives
The first thing a clinician sees is the skin, so the examination of the skin should be part of any thorough physical examination. Most skin disorders are relatively benign, but a few, including melanomas, can be fatal if untreated. A couple of the more noticeable disorders, albinism and vitiligo, affect the appearance of the skin and its accessory organs.
Albinism
Albinism is a genetic disorder that affects (completely or partially) the coloring of skin, hair, and eyes. The defect is primarily...
Albinism
Albinism is a genetic disorder that affects (completely or partially) the coloring of skin, hair, and eyes. The defect is primarily...
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when there is an abnormal growth of skin cells, usually triggered by damage to the DNA within the skin cells. It is primarily caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide, and its incidence continues to rise.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...
Skin Diseases and Disorders
Skin is the first line of defense and encounters a variety of microbes. Some pathogenic strains are often the cause of a broad range of infections of the skin and other body systems. These conditions can affect people of all ages and may have different causes, including genetic factors, infections, autoimmune reactions, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices.
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...
