[Sodium thiosulfate--new hope for the treatment of calciphylaxis]

Duodecim. 2011;127(16):1690-6.
[Article in Finnish]

Abstract

Calciphylaxis is a rare disease primarily affecting patients dependent on dialysis. It is characterised by small vessel media calcification leading to cutaneous ischemia and necrosis. The mortality rate is high with infection and sepsis being the most common causes of death. Calcium salts, vitamin D and high levels of serum calcium and phosphorus increase the risk of calciphylaxis. Current therapies including restoration of mineral homeostasis, wound care and pain control, are not entirely effective. Sodium thiosulfate, by dissolving calcium deposits, is a novel therapeutic choice for calciphylaxis. It has proved successful also in cases refractory to conventional treatment.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Calciphylaxis / drug therapy*
  • Calciphylaxis / etiology*
  • Calciphylaxis / mortality
  • Chelating Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Renal Dialysis / adverse effects*
  • Thiosulfates / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Chelating Agents
  • Thiosulfates
  • sodium thiosulfate