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. 2013:2013:341872.
doi: 10.1155/2013/341872. Epub 2013 Apr 11.

Metastatic pulmonary calcification in multiple myeloma in a 45-year-old man

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Metastatic pulmonary calcification in multiple myeloma in a 45-year-old man

Salim R Surani et al. Case Rep Pulmonol. 2013.

Abstract

Metastatic calcification has been associated with multiple-myeloma-induced hypercalcemia. Despite of a relatively high prevalence of metastatic pulmonary calcification in patients with multiple myeloma, only a few cases have been clinically and radiologically detected. A 45-year-old Hispanic male presented to the Emergency Department with complaint of worsening weakness and myalgia. Laboratory findings revealed renal insufficiency and hypercalcemia. CT scan of chest revealed calcified pleural and pulmonary nodule. Technetium (Tc) 99 bone scan revealed diffuse activity in the pulmonary parenchyma consistent with metastatic pulmonary calcification. Metastatic pulmonary calcification, despite its high prevalence, remains undetected. This is, in part, due to its radiographic characteristic properties that evade detection by routine imaging studies. We present a case of a metastatic pulmonary calcification in a patient diagnosed with multiple myeloma and chronic kidney disease, as well as a brief literature review including clinical findings and treatment options.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Chest X-ray AP view showing reticulonodular infiltrates and microcalcifications.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Chest CT showing ground-glass nodular opacities, with poorly defined nodules.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Technetium 99 bone scan, which revealed diffuse activity in the lung with significant lighting up of pulmonary parenchyma.

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