A Case of Calcinosis Universalis Successfully Treated with Low‐Dose Warfarin

Abstract

A 27-year-old male patient with calcinosis universalis resulting from dermatomyositis was successfully treated with low-dose warfarin. On his trunk and extremities, there were many subcutaneous calcified nodules, and knee flexion was difficult. After oral warfarin therapy for three years, the calcified nodules became smaller, and the knee mobility improved. His serum vitamin K level was abnormally high, decreased just after starting warfarin therapy, and then remained within the normal range. Since vitamin K has been known to play an important role in the Ca2+ binding process in bones or tissues, we suggest that this therapy is effective in reducing subcutaneous calcification through the vitamin K cycle.

Dystrophic calcinosis in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis

“…There are some reports that patients with calcinosis were treated successfully with pharmacotherapy, such as warfarin, bisphosphonate, or colchicine [6][7][8]. Surgical resection, on the other hand, is of benefit in cases of extensive calcinosis complicated with infections, presenting with skin ulcerations, or that are resistant to pharmacological treatment.…”

The Co-Existence of Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus, Ulcerated Calcinosis Cutis, and Dermatomyositis: Coincidence or Immunological Mechanism?

“…On the other hand, various degrees of success have been reported with bisphosphonates, probenecid, warfarin, aluminum hydroxide, colchicine, diltiazem, surgical excision, and intralesional steroid either as monotherapy or in combination, depending on the clinical circumstances9,13,15,17-19.…”

A Case of Idiopathic Calcinosis Universalis

“…Only one case has been reported with a complete resolution over a period of 1 year with continued steroid therapy (8). Treatment trials have included biphosphonate, etidronate disodium, aluminium hydroxide, warfarin, probenecid, intralesional injections of corticosteroids and finally surgical excision and laser therapy (7,9).…”