Calciphylaxis and its diagnosis: A review

Abstract

Calciphylaxis also known as Calcific uremic arteriolopathy (CUA), is a rare fatal complication usually associated with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). It is characterized by skin ulceration and necrosis leading to significant pain. The disease calciphylaxis is pathological state resulting in accumulation of calcium content in medial wall of small blood vessels along with the fibrotic changes in intima. The aetiopathogenesis of this disease, small vessel vasculopathy, remains complicated, and unclear. It is believed that development of calciphylaxis depends on medial calcification, intimal fibrosis of arterioles and thrombotic occlusion. The disease is rare, life-threatening medical condition that occurs mostly in population with kidney disease or in patients on dialysis. Skin biopsy and radiographic features are helpful in the diagnosis of calciphylaxis, but negative results do not necessarily exclude the diagnosis. This article highlights steps undertaking in the diagnosis of calciphylaxis.