Rapid resolution of tumoral calcinosis after renal transplantation

Three patients with extensive, symptomatic tumoral calcinosis (TC) were studied after renal transplantation. Changes in TC-related symptoms, radiological appearances, calcium, phosphate and intact parathyroid hormone concentrations were recorded. All patients noted an immediate reduction in pain and in 2 patients the TC rapidly resolved. Their TC was not palpable by 6 months and radiographs showed near complete resolution at 12 months. Both developed hypercalcemia and in one patient this was associated with polyuria and renal impairment. Bisphosphonates reduced the hypercalcemia but increasing the corticosteroids had no effect. The third patient remained dialysis dependent due to technical problems and rejection but continued on immunosuppression to preserve residual graft function. His TC improved symptomatically but grew radiologically. These cases demonstrate that rapid resolution of TC may occur after successful renal transplantation and that bisphosphonates can ameliorate the associated hypercalcemia. Early symptomatic benefit may occur without graft function and is probably due to the anti-inflammatory action of corticosteroids.