Extensive Skin Calcifications in an Infant With Chronic Renal Failure: Metastatic Calcinosis Cutis

Abstract

Calcinosis cutis, one of the rare manifestations of systemic calcinosis, is characterized by the deposition of calcium and phosphate salts in the skin. Metastatic calcinosis, usually a late complication of chronic renal failure, arises from increased calcium or phosphate levels in the serum or both. Both sexes and all ages may be affected; however, cutaneous involvement is uncommon, particularly in children. We present the youngest patient, to our knowledge, with end-stage renal disease and cutaneous metastatic calcification resulting from secondary hyperparathyroidism. A 2-month-old infant presented to the pediatric service with anuria and uremia. A renal biopsy specimen showed chronic tubulo-interstitial nephritis. Indurated, firm, tender reddish papules were localized to both lower limbs, and extensive irregular nodules and plaques with ulceration and white stony contents were localized to the right upper limb. Topical antibiotic ointment was applied to the skin lesions to prevent secondary infection. However, acute peritonitis developed during peritoneal dialysis, and death occurred as a result of sepsis.