Subepidermal calcified nodule

Abstract

Subepidermal calcified nodule is an uncommon, but specific subtype of idiopathic calcinosis. It presents as an asymptomatic, solitary, yellow-white or erythematous filiform tumor. The most common location is on the head and neck region of male children. Serum calcium and phosphorus levels are normal. Histopathologic examination reveals a focal papillary dermal collection of dark blue-staining, large, amorphous deposits, and/or small calcified globules surrounded by a lymphohistiocytic infiltrate. The causes and histiogenesis of these deposits have not been fully established, but the most favored theory is that calcium is deposited on a preexisting lesion. The treatment of choice is surgical removal with histopathologic examination. We describe a healthy 11-year-old Caucasian boy with an asymptomatic, warty growth below his left eye. Excision with histopathologic examination confirmed the diagnosis of subepidermal calcified nodule. There has been no sign of recurrence to date.