[A case of calciphylaxis in chronic renal failure]

Abstract

Calciphylaxis is characterized by progressive vascular calcification, soft tissue necrosis, and ischemic necrosis of the skin. The condition is usually associated with end-stage renal disease and has a poor prognosis. We present a 76-year-old man on hemodialysis who developed small, painful purpura on the thigh. The purpura rapidly spread to his back and hip and became ulcerated. Histological examination of a skin biopsy revealed arterial calcification in the subcutaneous adipose tissue. We therefore diagnosed calciphylaxis and administered intravenous antibiotics and debrided the necrotic soft tissue. However, the lesions did not heal and the patient died from sepsis related to cellulitis.