Calciphylaxis of the breast, mimicking advanced breast cancer with skin involvement

Abstract

Calciphylaxis, also known as calcific uremic arteriolopathy, is a condition most commonly seen in patients with End-stage Renal Disease. The pathophysiology of the condition is related to an elevated calcium-phosphate product. It associated with extensive calcification, especially of the media of arterioles. It most commonly presents with skin manifestations, especially in the abdomen. However, when it occurs in the breast, it can mimic an advanced breast malignancy. We report a case of a 34-year-old female who presented with an extensive lesion to the breast, initially thought to be a long-neglected breast carcinoma. However, it was ultimately diagnosed as calciphylaxis of the breast, and radiologic imaging (particularly ultrasound and mammography) were crucial in making the diagnosis. We make the case of the importance of radiologic imaging in diagnosing this condition.

Keywords

• Calciphylaxis
• Breast cancer
• Mammogram
• Ultrasound
• Warfarin
• Coumadin