Synonym: calcific uremic arteriolopathy
Penile calciphylaxis features medial calcification of small arteries with fibrosis and intimal hyperplasia. Obstruction of the vascular lumen can be followed by ischemia and gangrene.
Penile calciphylaxis may be seen in a patient with:
(1) chronic renal failure, often associated with diabetes mellitus
(2) development of uremia requiring chronic dialysis
(3) secondary hyperparathyroidism with elevation of serum calcium and phosphate
The patient may also develop dystrophic calcification of the subcutaneous soft tissues which may ulcerate.
Imaging studies of the pelvic and penis may demonstrate the extent and severity of the vascular disease.
Calciphylaxis with gangrene in the penis is usually seen in patients with severe systemic vascular disease. By the time penile gangrene occurs the patient has severe systemic disease and a poor prognosis.
