[Calciphylaxis. A call for interdisciplinary cooperation]

Abstract

Calciphylaxis is a rare, often very painful and potentially life-threatening disorder at the interface between nephrology and dermatology. It is characterized by skin lesions and ulcerations following calcification and occlusion of cutaneous arterioles. Most patients have chronic kidney disease or are on dialysis. A concert of various, still incompletely understood local and systemic risk factors is necessary to cause the development of calciphylaxis. Since randomized prospective trials are missing, interdisciplinary treatment is based on pathophysiological considerations as well as evidence derived from case reports or case series. Normalization of mineral metabolism, intensifying dialysis and avoidance of coumarins, as well as administration of calcimimetics, bisphosphonates and sodium thiosulfate and hyperbaric oxygen therapy are often used. Supportive measures include analgesics, antibiotics and local wound care. We have initiated an internet-based registry for patients with calciphylaxis in order to collect data for improved patient care (with support from Amgen) (www.calciphylaxie.de).