Calciphylaxis of both proximal and distal distribution

Saudi J Kidney Dis Transpl. 2008 Jan;19(1):82-6.

Abstract

Calciphylaxis is a dreaded complication of chronic renal failure characterized by nodular subcutaneous calcification and pain. Full tissue necrosis often leads to ulceration, secondary infection and high mortality rate. We herewith present a 65-year-old Saudi gentleman who presented with multiple necrotic skin lesions of both proximal and distal distribution. Skin biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of calciphylaxis. Patient was started on sevelamer hydrochloride and low calcium dialysate to which he responded dramatically without the need for parathyroidectomy. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of calciphylaxis with both proximal and distal distribution.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Calcinosis / drug therapy
  • Calcinosis / etiology
  • Calciphylaxis / drug therapy
  • Calciphylaxis / etiology*
  • Chelating Agents / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Hyperparathyroidism / complications*
  • Kidney Diseases / complications*
  • Kidney Failure, Chronic / complications*
  • Kidney Tubules, Distal / pathology*
  • Kidney Tubules, Proximal / pathology*
  • Male
  • Necrosis
  • Polyamines / therapeutic use
  • Scrotum / pathology
  • Sevelamer
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Ulcer / pathology

Substances

  • Chelating Agents
  • Polyamines
  • Sevelamer