Calciphylaxis: A Rare Clinical Presentation in a Patient with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)

Abstract

Calciphylaxis, also known as calcific uremic arteriolopathy (CUA), affects small arteries of the skin in patients with end-stage renal failure, dialysis patients, and patients with hypercalcemia. The condition is characterized by the calcification of small blood vessels leading to skin necrosis without inflammation. It is frequently complicated by superimposed infection and bleeding and has a high mortality rate. The rare condition is yet to be documented on the islands of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The authors have, therefore, made efforts to document, educate, and discuss this rare presentation in a 65-year-old local Vincentian male with 30 years history of poorly controlled diabetes mellitus and hypertension who commenced hemodialysis two years prior to the presentation for end-stage chronic renal failure. With the increasing incidence and prevalence of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and complications of chronic kidney disease, and renal failure, this article is written as a case study with a concise literature review on calciphylaxis to provide continuing medical education and increase the level of awareness among medical students and index of suspicion among healthcare providers.