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Calciphylaxis in patients on hemodialysis: a prevalence study
M Angelis1, L L Wong, S A Myers
1Department of Surgery, John A Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, USA.
Surgery
|January 14, 1998
Summary
Calciphylaxis, a severe skin condition in dialysis patients, is more common in younger individuals with longer treatment durations. Early intervention for secondary hyperparathyroidism is crucial for these patients.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Dermatology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Calciphylaxis presents as painful skin lesions potentially leading to necrosis, ulcers, and severe complications like sepsis or death.
- Identifying calciphylaxis prevalence and patient characteristics is vital for timely intervention in hemodialysis patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and characteristics of calciphylaxis in hemodialysis patients.
- To identify patient factors associated with calciphylaxis for improved monitoring and treatment strategies.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective cross-sectional study reviewed 242 hemodialysis patients over 15 months.
- Data collected included patient demographics, dialysis history, and biochemical markers.
Main Results:
- Calciphylaxis was identified in 4.1% of patients (10 out of 242).
- Patients with calciphylaxis were younger, had longer dialysis durations, and exhibited higher serum calcium, phosphate, calcium-phosphate product, parathyroid hormone, and alkaline phosphatase levels.
- Bone surveys were positive in all calciphylaxis patients, and parathyroidectomy led to ulcer healing.
Conclusions:
- Calciphylaxis prevalence is higher in younger hemodialysis patients with extended treatment periods.
- Aggressive monitoring and prompt treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism complications are recommended for this patient group.