Calciphylaxis is a rare, serious, and potentially deadly disease that is most likely to occur in people with moderate to severe kidney problems. It is characterized by calcium accumulation in small blood vessels of the fat and skin tissues, which causes blood clots, painful skin ulcers, and serious infections that can lead to death. People who have calciphylaxis usually have kidney failure and are on dialysis or have had a kidney transplant. However, it can also occur in people without kidney disease.

The exact cause of calciphylaxis is unknown, but recent studies have revealed that most people with the condition have abnormalities in blood-clotting factors. Calcium deposits form in and block the blood vessels that supply the skin and the tissue just underneath it, which can affect the function and appearance of the skin. Calciphylaxis can be characterized by large, purple, web-like markings on the skin, and large, brown, crusted sores. It can also affect the function of internal organs.

Signs and symptoms of calciphylaxis include:

• Large purple net-like patterns on the skin
• Deep, very painful lumps that ulcerate creating open sores with black-brown crust that fails to heal — typically in skin areas with high fat content, such as the stomach and thigh, although they can occur anywhere
• Infections from wounds that dont heal
• Severe pain
• Large, deep, non-healing ulcers
• Blood infections
• Death, usually due to infection and multi-organ failure

There isnt currently a known cure for calciphylaxis, but doctors can help manage the symptoms by administering pain medication and doing things that encourage the wounds to heal. Healthcare practitioners may also provide options that could reduce the calcium deposits in the body to stall the condition or relieve symptoms, such as changing or introducing new medications, surgery, or dialysis. Early detection and treatment are very important in helping to prevent serious infections.