Massive soft tissue calcification causing complete loss of extensor tendon function in renal failure.

Extraskeletal soft tissue calcifications occur commonly in patients with uremia receiving dialysis. Rarely, a large tumoral calcinosis-like mass may develop. A patient receiving chronic ambulatory peritoneal dialysis for only 7 months developed a tumoral calcinosis-like mass that encased the extensor tendons of his wrist with loss of extensor tendon function, initially suggesting extensor tendon rupture. Surgical debridement restored tendon function. Tumoral calcinosis-like lesions are uncommon, but may cause limitation of joint movement, pain or ulceration through the skin. Measures aimed at controlling factors contributing to soft tissue calcification should be undertaken in any event whether surgery is required or not.