Calciphylaxis

Calciphylaxis is defined by the presence of calcium deposits within the wall of small and medium-sized vessels. It is classically considered a life-threatening disease in patients with end-stage renal disease under dialysis. Clinically, it is characterized by the presence of painful plaques surrounded by a reticulate purpura that progresses to nonhealing ulcers, predominately in the lower limbs. It is associated with elevated parathyroid hormone levels and a dysregulation of the calcium/phosphate metabolism. In the absence of renal disease, normal parathyroid hormone levels, and calcium/phosphorus product, a good prognosis and the observation of similar calcium deposits associated with different conditions or even an epiphenomenon in diseases with well-known diagnosis leads one to consider the term calciphylaxis controversial.