CALCIPHYLAXIS Meaning and
Definition
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Calciphylaxis is a rare and life-threatening medical condition characterized by the formation of calcium deposits in small blood vessels, leading to tissue death (necrosis). Also known as calcific uremic arteriolopathy (CUA), calciphylaxis primarily affects individuals with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or chronic kidney disease (CKD), although cases in individuals without kidney disease have also been reported.
The condition occurs due to an imbalance in mineral metabolism, particularly involving calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood. High levels of calcium and phosphorus can cause calcification of small blood vessels throughout the body, impairing blood flow and oxygen supply to vital organs.
Symptoms of calciphylaxis typically include excruciating pain, skin ulcers, and a characteristic pattern of skin lesions that range from purple to black and may be surrounded by a reddish rash. These lesions commonly appear on the lower extremities, but can also affect the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks. In severe cases, calciphylaxis can progress to gangrene and result in limb amputation or even death.
Diagnosis is often made through a combination of physical examination, skin biopsies, and laboratory tests to assess calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood. Treatment of calciphylaxis involves a multidisciplinary approach and aims to address the underlying mineral imbalance, relieve pain, promote wound healing, prevent infection, and improve overall patient well-being. Treatment options may include medication to control mineral metabolism, wound care management, pain management, and surgical debridement or amputation in severe cases.
Common Misspellings for CALCIPHYLAXIS
- xalciphylaxis
- valciphylaxis
- falciphylaxis
- dalciphylaxis
- czlciphylaxis
- cslciphylaxis
- cwlciphylaxis
- cqlciphylaxis
- cakciphylaxis
- capciphylaxis
- caociphylaxis
- calxiphylaxis
- calviphylaxis
- calfiphylaxis
- caldiphylaxis
- calcuphylaxis
- calcjphylaxis
- calckphylaxis
- calcophylaxis
- calc9phylaxis
Etymology of CALCIPHYLAXIS
The word "calciphylaxis" is derived from the combination of two terms: "calci-" and "-phylaxis".
1. "Calci-" is derived from the Latin word "calx" meaning "lime" or "calcium". In medical terminology, it usually refers to a condition involving calcium or calcification.
2. "-phylaxis" is derived from the Greek word "phylax" meaning "protection" or "guard". It is often used in medical terminology to describe a state of defense or immune response against a particular substance or condition.
Therefore, "calciphylaxis" combines these elements to describe a condition where the body has an adverse immune response or protective reaction against calcium or calcification, leading to the development of ischemia and necrosis in small blood vessels.
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