Calcinosis Cutis in Dogs: When Calcium Buildup Becomes a Problem

Calcinosis cutis is a condition that results in the accumulation of calcium deposits in the skin of dogs. It can be a painful and uncomfortable condition, and can significantly affect a dog’s quality of life. In this article, we will explore the causes, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of calcinosis cutis in dogs, as well as discuss preventability, curability, and long-term management of the condition.

What is calcinosis cutis in dogs?

Calcinosis cutis is a condition in which calcium deposits form in the skin and subcutaneous tissue of dogs. These deposits can vary in size and shape, and may be visible as bumps or masses under the skin. Calcinosis cutis can occur in any breed of dog, but is more common in certain breeds such as Doberman Pinschers, Boxers, and Shar Peis.

There are two main types of calcinosis cutis: dystrophic and metastatic. Dystrophic calcinosis cutis is the most common form, and is characterized by calcium deposits that form in areas of damaged or scarred skin. This type of calcinosis cutis is often the result of an underlying skin condition such as a wound, infection, or tumor. Metastatic calcinosis cutis, on the other hand, occurs when calcium deposits form in healthy skin as a result of abnormal calcium metabolism in the body.

What are the causes of calcinosis cutis in dogs?

The exact cause of calcinosis cutis in dogs is not fully understood, and in many cases, the cause is unknown. However, there are several factors that may contribute to the development of the condition, including:

• Abnormal calcium metabolism: As mentioned above, abnormal calcium metabolism can lead to the development of metastatic calcinosis cutis. This may be the result of a hormonal imbalance or a genetic predisposition.
• Underlying skin conditions: Dystrophic calcinosis cutis is often the result of an underlying skin condition such as a wound, infection, or tumor. These conditions can cause damage to the skin, leading to the formation of calcium deposits.
• Certain medications: Some medications, such as steroids and vitamin D supplements, can cause an excess of calcium in the body, leading to the development of calcinosis cutis.
• Nutritional imbalances: A diet that is high in calcium or vitamin D can contribute to the development of calcinosis cutis.

What are the signs and symptoms of calcinosis cutis in dogs?

The signs and symptoms of calcinosis cutis in dogs can vary depending on the location and size of the calcium deposits. Common signs and symptoms include:

• Visible bumps or masses under the skin: Calcium deposits may be visible as bumps or masses under the skin, which can range in size from small to large.
• Skin irritation: The presence of calcium deposits can cause irritation and inflammation of the skin, leading to redness, swelling, and discomfort.
• Hair loss: Calcium deposits may cause hair loss in the affected area.
• Lameness: In severe cases, calcium deposits may form in the joints, leading to lameness or difficulty moving.
• Discharge: Calcium deposits may cause discharge from the affected area.
• Odor: In some cases, calcium deposits may produce a foul odor.

How is calcinosis cutis diagnosed in dogs?

Calcinosis cutis is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, laboratory testing, and imaging studies. During a physical examination, your veterinarian will examine your dog’s skin and look for the presence of calcium deposits. They may also perform a biopsy, in which a small sample of tissue is taken from the affected area for laboratory testing.

Laboratory testing may include blood tests to check for abnormal calcium levels and to rule out other potential causes of skin abnormalities. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or ultrasound, may also be used to visualize the calcium deposits and determine their location and size.

How is calcinosis cutis treated in dogs?

Treatment for calcinosis cutis in dogs is based on the size, location, and number of calcium deposits, as well as the underlying cause of the condition. Treatment options may include:

• Surgical removal: In some cases, surgical removal of the calcium deposits may be necessary. This can be a complex procedure, as the deposits may be deeply rooted in the skin and surrounding tissue.
• Medications: Medications may be used to help dissolve or reduce the size of the calcium deposits. These may include medications that help to regulate calcium metabolism in the body, as well as antibiotics to treat any underlying infections.
• Dietary changes: If the cause of calcinosis cutis is a dietary imbalance, your veterinarian may recommend changes to your dog’s diet to help correct the imbalance.
• Supportive care: Depending on the severity of the condition, your veterinarian may recommend other supportive care measures such as wound care, pain management, or physical therapy to help your dog recover.

Is calcinosis cutis preventable in dogs?

In some cases, calcinosis cutis may be preventable through careful management of diet and medication use. It is important to ensure that your dog is receiving a balanced and appropriate diet, and to carefully follow dosing instructions for any medications your dog is taking. Avoiding excessive supplementation with calcium or vitamin D can also help prevent the development of calcinosis cutis.

However, it is important to note that the exact cause of calcinosis cutis in dogs is not fully understood, and in many cases, the condition may not be preventable. In these cases, the focus will be on managing the condition with treatment and supportive care.

Is calcinosis cutis curable in dogs?

The curability of calcinosis cutis in dogs depends on the underlying cause of the condition and the severity of the calcium deposits. In some cases, the condition may be cured with surgical removal of the calcium deposits and addressing the underlying cause, such as an infection or a medication-related issue.

However, in other cases, calcinosis cutis may be a chronic condition that requires long-term management. This may involve ongoing treatment with medications to control calcium levels, as well as supportive care to manage symptoms and improve the overall quality of life for the affected dog. In these cases, the goal of treatment is to control the condition and prevent the development of new calcium deposits, rather than to achieve a complete cure.

How does calcinosis cutis affect a dog’s quality of life?

Calcinosis cutis can be a painful and uncomfortable condition for dogs, and can significantly affect their quality of life. The presence of calcium deposits can cause irritation and inflammation of the skin, leading to redness, swelling, and discomfort. In severe cases, the deposits may cause difficulty moving or lameness, which can limit a dog’s ability to engage in normal activities.

Can calcinosis cutis be managed long-term in dogs?

In some cases, calcinosis cutis can be managed long-term with medications, dietary changes, and supportive care. Regular monitoring and follow-up care with a veterinarian can help to identify any new calcium deposits as they form, and allow for early treatment to prevent the condition from worsening.

Is calcinosis cutis in dogs painful?

The presence of calcium deposits can cause irritation and inflammation of the skin, which can be painful for dogs. In addition, if the deposits form in the joints, they can cause lameness or difficulty moving, which can be uncomfortable for dogs. It is important to seek veterinary care for your dog if you suspect they may be experiencing pain or discomfort due to calcinosis cutis.

Overall, it is important to work closely with a veterinarian to properly diagnose and treat calcinosis cutis in order to minimize discomfort and improve your dog’s quality of life. In some cases, the condition may require long-term management, but with proper care and treatment, it is possible to manage the condition and help your dog lead a happy and healthy life

If you suspect that your dog may be experiencing calcinosis cutis, it is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Your veterinarian will be able to diagnose the condition and recommend appropriate treatment options to help manage the condition and improve your dog’s quality of life.