A case of penile necrosis induced by calciphylaxis associated with chronic renal failure, with a review of the literature

Abstract

We report a case of penile necrosis induced by calciphylaxis associated with chronic renal failure. Calciphylaxis is a rare but life-threatening phenomenon characterized by deposition of calcium within small-and medium-sized blood vessels, with subsequent thrombosis, cutaneous ischemia and necrosis. It is a known complication of chronic renal disease in patients on hemodialysis. The co-morbidity and mortality associated with this disease are extremely high. Secondary hyperparathyroidism and increased serum calcium phosphate are characteristic and require aggressive medical management. Our review suggests that parathyroidectomy may improve survival and that survival is independent of the type of local treatment for the penile lesions. Recently, aggressive medical control with calcimimetics (e.g. cinacalcet) has been considered for secondary hyperparathyroidism. [MVRC 5(1): 9-11, 2012]