Calciphylaxis: what nurses need to know

Calciphylaxis is a rare and potentially fatal complication of end stage renal disease (ESRD) and secondary hyperparathyroidism associated with abnormal calcium metabolism. Painful purple skin lesions are often the presenting sign with digital ischemia, ulcerations, and necrosis being the characteristic features of the disease. Skin or incisional biopsy showing widespread calcifications and fibrinous thrombi without inflammation will confirm the diagnosis. Early recognition and prompt treatment of calciphylaxis is vital for symptom relief, ulcer healing, and prevention of sepsis and death. This article will educate nurses to recognize this disease in hope of early treatment. The article includes information about disease history, pathogenesis, etiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, prevention, and current treatment, and, in addition, presents case study of a patient with calciphylaxis.