Subepidermal Calcified Nodules

Abstract

Subepidermal cutaneous calculi usually occur as solitary lesions, and since their recognition as a definite entity with a characteristic histopathology, reported cases have not been associated with biochemical abnormalities, other dermatologic disorders, or with systemic illness. The occurrence of numerous subepidermal cutaneous nodules in a young Negro boy with ichthyosis, serious liver disease, and an elevated sweat calcium level raised the possibility that dermatologic and systemic abnormalities may play a role in the pathogenesis of this condition. Winer's concept that the tumor is a calcified hamartoma of sweat duct origin is supported by demonstration of similar histologic changes in calcified syringomas and by the elevated sweat calcium level.