Leech Induced Pyoderma Gangrenosum in an Ulcerative Colitis Patient: A Case Report

Middle East J Dig Dis. 2016 Jan;8(1):63-6. doi: 10.15171/mejdd.2016.09.

Abstract

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a painful skin lesion that results from excessive inflammatory response to a host of traumatic, inflammatory, or neoplastic processes in susceptible individuals. A clear pathogenetic mechanism as well as an exhaustive list of potential triggers for PG is yet to be fully characterized. This case documents the occurrence of pyoderma gangrenosum following leech-therapy in a patient who is a known case of ulcerative colitis and it deserves attention because leeches have been part of medical armamentarium since ancient times and have re-emerged in the last century relying on their ancient charm and modern research revealing potential benefits of several bioactive substances in their saliva.

Keywords: Leech-therapy; Pyoderma gangrenosum; Ulcerative colitis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports