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Case report 620. Progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS) with paraspinous and intraspinous calcifications
C A Walden1, P Gilbert, L F Rogers
1Department of Radiology, Northwestern University Medical School, Chicago, Illinois 60611.
Skeletal Radiology
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS) can cause widespread calcifications. This case highlights extensive spinal calcific deposits in a PSS patient, leading to severe spinal canal narrowing.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Dermatology
- Radiology
Background:
- Progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS) is a multisystem connective tissue disease characterized by fibrosis and vascular abnormalities.
- Calcinosis cutis, the deposition of calcium in soft tissues, is a common complication of PSS.
- Typical sites for calcifications include fingertips, knees, and elbows, often associated with soft tissue or muscle necrosis.
Observation:
- This report details a patient with PSS presenting with subcutaneous calcifications and scleroderma.
- The patient exhibited extensive paraspinous and intraspinal calcific deposits.
- These intraspinal calcifications resulted in significant narrowing of the spinal canal.
Findings:
- The case demonstrates an unusual and severe manifestation of calcinosis cutis within the spinal canal in a patient with PSS.
- Radiographic review of 66 PSS patients confirmed soft tissue calcifications as a frequent finding.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for extensive intraspinal calcifications in PSS, posing a risk for neurological compromise.
- Awareness of this rare complication is crucial for early diagnosis and management of PSS patients.
- Further research may elucidate the specific mechanisms driving intraspinal calcification in PSS.