Twenty-seven cases of tumoral calcinosis collected from the literature and six more previously unreported have been studied. On this basis, diagnostic criteria and possible etiologic factors are presented and discussed.
On the basis of this study we suggest the following criteria for the diagnosis of tumoral calcinosis.
1. The presence of large, painless, calcified masses in juxta-articular sites, particularly around the elbows and hips.
2. The absence of abnormal values of serum calcium or phosphorus.
3. No associated renal disease, metabolic disorder, or collagen disease.
4. The disease manifesting itself before the age of twenty.
5. Evidence of familial or racial predisposition.
6. Recurrence of the lesion particularly after incomplete excision.