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Calcosis in generalized scleroderma
Abstract:
20 cases of generalized scleroderma with calcinosis, i.e. Thibierge-Weissenbach syndrome, were reviewed concerning the clinical and radiological findings. 60% of the patients complained of esophageal dysfunction, and in 85% radiological abnormalities of the esophagus were found. Gastro-intestinal complaints, with or without radiological changes, were found in accordance with other reports. Decreased pulmonary function was a frequent feature, but only half of these cases showed pulmonary fibrosis on chest X-ray. Calcinosis primarily affects areas of sclerosis, but can be found elsewhere. Six of our patients had intervertebral calcifications in the thoracic and/or lumbar spine. This seems to be a new observation in patients with scleroderma.