Angiodermite nécrotique et calciphylaxies

Necrotic angiodermatitis is a specific form of ischaemic leg ulcer associated with hypertension which is often under diagnosed. Underlying vascular lesions affect small calibre vessels. Arteriolosclerosis and artery vasospasms are responsible for the ischaemia and the skin necrosis which characterises the ulcer. This condition is very painful and difficult to treat. Early diagnosis is essential in order to prevent the rapid progression of the skin necrosis and the patient's suffering. Current treatment is based on skin grafting and the correction of cardiovascular risk factors. Calciphylaxis represents the main differential diagnosis and is observed in patients receiving haemodialysis or having had a transplant.