Because of the reported favorable effects of chelating agents in calcium deposition diseases,1-5 we are reporting our experience in the treatment of 3 cases of calcinosis universalis presumed secondary to dermatomyositis. The regimen chosen was used by many authors effectively in scleroderma 1-4 and in one reported case of calcinosis universalis.5
Therapeutic Regimen.—Edetate (disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid [EDTA]) supplied as Endrate by Abbott Laboratories was used. Each child received 50 mg. per kilogram in 5% dextrose daily for 5 days. This was followed by a 2-day rest period and the cycle repeated twice for a total of 15 days of therapy. Range of motion at the major joints was measured immediately prior to and immediately after therapy as well as at a subsequent follow-up. No physical therapy was given while the patients were hospitalized, but they were allowed full activity. They were placed on a low-calcium diet during