Breast necrosis: calciphylaxis a rare cause

Calciphylaxis is a small vessel vasculopathy characterized by significant calcium deposition in the vessel walls and tissue of renal failure patients. The process leads to progressive, painful, ischemic wounding. Management is generally medical; however, superinfection requires surgical intervention. A case of calciphylaxis of the breast is presented. Calciphylaxis of the breast is atypical - the wounds are usually located on the abdomen and thighs. A discussion of the process, its progression, identification and surgical management is presented. A case is made for appropriate debridement and vacuum-assisted wound therapy.