Tumoral calcinosis: a dental literature review and case report

Tumoral calcinosis is a rare familial disorder characterized by multiple subcutaneous calcified masses most commonly located in peri-articular regions. It is transmitted in an autosomal dominant or (less commonly) autosomal recessive pattern. TC occurs most commonly in people of African descent during the first two decades of life with no significant sex predilection.

The calcified masses usually arise around a large joint such as the hip, shoulder or elbow, generally at the extensor surface of the joint. They are less frequently found in the hands, feet and knees. Large calcifications may sometimes cause deformity and disabilities requiring surgical intervention. Discharge of calcium salts from the lesions may result in ulceration of the overlying skin.

The lesions may be lobular and cystic, containing white to pale yellowish chalky material identified as calcium hydroxyapatite crystals along with amorphous calcium carbonate and calcium phosphate. On histopathologic examination, they contain epithelioid elements and multinucleated giant cells surrounding the calcium granules.