## Overview Calcification in the equine context usually refers to dystrophic or metastatic deposition of calcium in soft tissues (tendons, ligaments, or joint capsules) or to heterotopic bone formation. It is often a secondary response to chronic injury, inflammation, or degeneration rather than a primary disease. Common sites include the suspensory ligament, deep digital flexor tendon, and periarticular tissues. ## Causes Chronic tendinopathy, repeated trauma, and certain metabolic disturbances can trigger calcium deposition. The exact triggers vary by location; evidence for systemic metabolic causes in horses is limited compared with local tissue injury. ## Diagnosis Radiographs or ultrasound reveal mineralized densities within soft tissues. Clinical significance depends on whether the calcification correlates with pain and lameness. Advanced imaging may be needed for precise localization. ## Treatment Management focuses on the underlying injury: rest, anti-inflammatories, and controlled rehabilitation. Extracorporeal shock wave or other modalities are sometimes used; evidence for dissolving established calcification is limited. Surgery is rarely indicated solely for calcification. ## Recovery and Prognosis Prognosis depends on the primary lesion. Calcification itself may persist as a radiographic finding even after clinical improvement. ## Prevention Prompt treatment of soft-tissue injuries and avoidance of repetitive overload reduce the chance of secondary calcification.
variable lameness depending on location; palpable firm swelling; radiographic or ultrasound evidence of mineral density in soft tissue
## Overview Calcification in the equine context usually refers to dystrophic or metastatic deposition of calcium in soft tissues (tendons, ligaments, or joint capsules) or to heterotopic bone formation. It is often a secondary response to chronic injury, inflammation, or degeneration rather than a primary disease. Common sites include the suspensory ligament, deep digital flexor tendon, and periarticular tissues. ## Causes Chronic tendinopathy, repeated trauma, and certain metabolic disturbances can trigger calcium deposition. The exact triggers vary by location; evidence for systemic metabolic causes in horses is limited compared with local tissue injury. ## Diagnosis Radiographs or ultrasound reveal mineralized densities within soft tissues. Clinical significance depends on whether the calcification correlates with pain and lameness. Advanced imaging may be needed for precise localization. ## Treatment Management focuses on the underlying injury: rest, anti-inflammatories, and controlled rehabilitation. Extracorporeal shock wave or other modalities are sometimes used; evidence for dissolving established calcification is limited. Surgery is rarely indicated solely for calcification. ## Recovery and Prognosis Prognosis depends on the primary lesion. Calcification itself may persist as a radiographic finding even after clinical improvement. ## Prevention Prompt treatment of soft-tissue injuries and avoidance of repetitive overload reduce the chance of secondary calcification.
variable lameness depending on location; palpable firm swelling; radiographic or ultrasound evidence of mineral density in soft tissue