Calciphylaxis in man

A patient with renal failure developed widespread calcification in the thighs after the injection of iron-dextran (Imferon). This is considered as an example of calciphylaxis, a process in which calcium is laid down in parts of the body following the administration of a "challenger." Iron-dextran is a known challenger, and should be used with caution in uraemic subjects, who may be sensitized by high serum parathyroid hormone levels. Contributing factors may have been a high calcium/phosphate product, steroids, and the patient's immobility.