Systemic lupus erythematosus and diffuse soft tissue calcifications

A 26-year-old white woman developed systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and extensive soft tissue calcification. Striking features of this patient related to severe complication of corticosteroids, including proximal muscle weakness and multiple areas of avascular necrosis. In addition to localized areas of erythematosus induration, the patient demonstrated yellowish papules on her legs. Biopsies of the former showed thickening of the dermis with extensive collagen deposition and focal deposits of calcium. The latter revealed eosinophilic degeneration of the subcutaneous fat.