Calciphylaxis: no longer rare; no longer calciphylaxis? A paradigm shift for wound, ostomy and continence nursing

This article challenges conventional wisdom that calciphylaxis is a rare condition. Rather, emerging evidence suggests that calciphylaxis is neither rare nor uncommon. In addition, the term calciphylaxis is questioned because misrepresents the underlying etiology of the condition. Multiple researchers and clinicians advocate abandoning the use of the term, but nursing literature has not yet followed suit. This article reviews the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of this condition and associated wounds, and suggests areas for future research. The WOC nurse's role as an educator, leader, researcher, clinical expert, and patient advocate is summarized.