A case of dystrophic calcification in the masseter muscle

Nonhealing venous ulcer in a patient with dystrophic soft tissue calcification

Venous leg ulcers (VLUs) are lesions of the skin found in regions of venous hypertension. VLUs that fail to heal can become chronic, especially because of calcified deposits in the bed of the ulcer. The unclear mechanism behind the cause of calcification poses a challenge when approaching diagnosis and management. In the present report, we discuss the case of a 58-year-old woman who had presented with a chronic VLU that was resistant to healing despite numerous interventions. During a 3-year period, a multidisciplinary team was involved to provide medical and surgical care. Eventually, she was found to have dystrophic calcification of the VLU.

Patients who experience systemic lupus erythematosus and leg ulcer: phenomenological approach

OBJECTIVE

To understand the experience of a woman with systemic lupus erythematosus and leg ulcers with cutaneous calcinosis.

METHODS

An experience report based on the social phenomenology of Alfred Schutz, conducted with a young woman undergoing treatment in an outpatient service.

RESULTS

The disease manifested itself in adolescence and brought emotional instability associated with body image concern and social isolation. The discontinuation of the studies triggered financial limitations with implications for treatment. The presence of ulcers aggravated by skin calcification makes the process of getting sick tiring and painful. Interpersonal relationships are resources for coping with situations experienced.

FINAL CONSIDERATIONS

Patients with lupus may have social, affective, and family life, even in the face of the limitations imposed by the disease. However, the emergence of leg ulcer with calcinosis changes this situation.