Question

What are the management strategies for calcinosis?

Hint:

Conservative measures and pharmacological treatments are the first steps in managing calcinosis, with surgery reserved for more severe cases.

Answer 1

Step 1: Conservative Management.
Management of calcinosis in JDM often begins with conservative measures like physical therapy to prevent further joint damage. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may help manage discomfort.
Step 2: Pharmacologic Interventions.
In more severe cases, medications such as bisphosphonates (e.g., alendronate), dantrolene, and corticosteroids may be used to reduce the progression of calcification. In some cases, calcium channel blockers like nifedipine have shown promise in treating calcinosis.
Step 3: Surgical Intervention.
Surgical intervention may be required if calcinosis causes significant functional impairment or if the lesions become infected.