Case Report: Calciphylaxis Causing Digital, Gangrene in End Stage Renal Disease

Abstract

Calcific uraemic arteriolopathy (CUA), a potentially lifethreatening vasculopathy of the skin and subcutaneous tissues is rarely associated with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) particularly in patients on haemodialysis. It is more frequently reported in whites than in blacks and commonly accompanies hyperphosphataemia, elevated calcium-phosphate product and marked secondary hyperparathyroidism. We report a rare case of CUA that complicated end stage renal disease secondary to obstructive uropathy in a 68 year old Nigerian. The risk factors for CUA, diagnosis, management and our peculiar limitations were reviewed and discussed.

Keywords: Calciphylaxis, calcium, phosphare, ESRD, gangrene, blacks.