Calcinosis circumscripta of the breasts: The deeper meaning

Calcinosis circumscripta involving the breasts usually hints at an underlying systemic cause, most commonly connective tissue disorders such as scleroderma or dermatomyositis. Localised scleroderma, also known as morphoea, is not usually associated with the systemic anomalies affecting the lungs and gastrointestinal system, but does manifest as calcified dermal and subdermal sclerotic plaques. Histological confirmation with skin biopsy is diagnostic.

Recognition of the atypical, bizarre, linear dystrophic calcifications on mammography should direct appropriate systemic investigations.