Calciphylaxis on bone scan: correlation between molecular and cross-sectional findings
Malak Itani1, Manuela Matesan1, Sanaz Behnia1
1Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Washington, 1959 N.E. Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
Radiology Case Reports
|February 24, 2017
Summary
Calciphylaxis, a rare condition linked to kidney disease, involves microvascular calcifications. This case highlights its appearance on bone scans and CT scans, aiding early diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Radiology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Calciphylaxis is a rare, severe condition often seen in patients with end-stage renal disease.
- It is characterized by calcification of small blood vessels, leading to tissue damage.
Observation:
- A case of calciphylaxis is presented with characteristic imaging findings.
- The patient exhibited asymmetric radiotracer uptake in the lower extremities on Tc-99m MDP bone scan.
- Computed tomography revealed extensive soft tissue calcifications correlating with the scan findings.
Findings:
- Tc-99m MDP bone scintigraphy can demonstrate asymmetric radiotracer uptake in calciphylaxis.
- CT imaging is crucial for identifying the extent of soft tissue calcification in this condition.
Implications:
- Early recognition of calciphylaxis through characteristic imaging is vital.
- Prompt diagnosis can lead to timely treatment and potentially improved patient outcomes.
- This case underscores the importance of integrating clinical presentation with advanced imaging techniques for rare diseases.
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