Beneficial Effects of Amnion-Chorion Stem Cell Grafting in the Long Term Management of Nonuremic Calciphylaxis Wounds

Calciphylaxis is a poorly understood disease with high morbidity and mortality. The current primary literature on treatment is lacking; however, disease management often involves a multifaceted approach with a primary focus on consistent wound care. This report describes a case outlining the long-term management of nonuremic calciphylaxis wounds in a patient with severe malnutrition with the use of human amniotic membrane grafts, aggressive surgical debridement, nutritional therapy, and advanced wound healing techniques. A 38-year-old African American female with a history of non-uremic calciphylaxis presented from a transitional facility with numerous non-healing wounds in the setting of severe malnutrition secondary to bariatric surgery. Biweekly wound debridement was initiated utilizing an amniotic stem cell skin graft, dry applicable absorbent dressing, high-frequency ultrasonic ablation, and wound vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) over the course of approximately nine months. Nutritional supplementation was given in the form of jejunostomy tube feed due to a gastric bypass and a perforated viscus. At the current date, the patient demonstrates significant improvement in pain and wound healing. The patient is also able to ambulate with care and has begun steps towards independent management of wounds. Future goals of care include independent bedside wound management, placement of allograft, and discharge to a long-term care facility. Most patients with refractory pain, widespread necrotic wounds, and dangerous comorbidities will inevitably be referred to palliative care. This case creates a framework for the long term management of medically complex patients with nonuremic calciphylaxis using human amniotic membrane stem cell grafts and appropriate advanced wound care techniques.