Calciphylaxis: Current Management and Emerging Therapies

Calciphylaxis or calcific uremic arteriolopathy is a relatively uncommon condition with poor prognosis. Although it is predominantly observed in patients with end stage renal disease, a few cases of patients without kidney failure have been reported. Calciphylaxis is characterized by calcification of the arteriolar intima media and eventually by vascular thrombosis, tissue ischemia and painful skin necrosis. Septicemia is the main cause of death. According to published literature concerning the pathology of calciphylaxis, prevention and treatment are principally based on interventions in calcium and phosphorus metabolism. Although novel therapies have emerged, due to the rarity of this condition, there is no sufficient data in favor of a certain treatment.