calciphylaxis

Pronunciation: kal′si-fī-lak′sis

Definition: A condition of induced systemic hypersensitivity in which tissues respond to appropriate challenging agents with a sudden, but sometimes evanescent, local calcification. Clinical findings include painful, ischemic tissue necrosis with a black eschar on a red to purple reticulated background. Serum calcium-phosphorus product is elevated; secondary hyperparathyroidism is frequently seen. X-rays show calcification of blood vesels in the involved areas.

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