Calciphylaxis in the patient with chronic renal failure

Calciphylaxis is a rare, painful, necrotizing skin condition that occurs most frequently in patients with chronic renal failure who are receiving dialysis. These patients commonly have secondary hyperparathyroidism. Treatment involves a multidisciplinary approach. Surgical wound debridement, local wound care, pain control, and nutritional support are the primary care issues that must be addressed. The outcome is often poor, with the fatal outcome often resulting from sepsis.