Calcific uremic arteriolopathy presenting with small and large bowel involvement

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Vascular Pathology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Calcific uremic arteriolopathy (CUA) is a rare vascular complication in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD).
• CUA involves thrombosis in calcified arteries, leading to tissue infarction and infection.
• The condition typically manifests with characteristic skin lesions.

Observation:

• This report details a fatal case of CUA with significant intestinal involvement.
• Intestinal presentation occurred substantially earlier than the typical skin lesions.
• This highlights an unusual and potentially overlooked initial manifestation of CUA.

Findings:

• The case underscores the variability in CUA presentation, particularly gastrointestinal tract involvement.
• Early and accurate diagnosis of CUA can be challenging due to atypical presentations.
• Prompt management is critical given the high morbidity and mortality associated with CUA.

Implications:

• Increased awareness of CUA's diverse presentations is necessary for timely diagnosis and treatment.
• This case emphasizes the importance of considering CUA in ESRD patients with unexplained gastrointestinal complications.
• Further research into early diagnostic markers and effective therapeutic strategies for CUA is warranted.