Cutaneous vasculitis following cocaine abuse

Authors

  • María Calligaris National University of Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina
  • Jesica Nipoti National University of Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina
  • Mario Gorosito Centennial Provincial Hospital, Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina
  • María Gabriela Garrido National University of Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina
  • Ramón Alfredo Fernández Bussy Centennial Provincial Hospital, Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina

Keywords:

vasculitis, cocaine, levamisole

Abstract

The range of skin damage caused by cocaine is wide. In recent years, a growing number of cases of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) vasculitis have been seen in cocaine addict patients. The cause would be the levamisole, an anthelmintic known by its immunomodulatory effect, used to adulterate cocaine. A case of female patient of 22 years old addicted to cocaine consulted for cutaneous lesions compatible with skin vasculitis is presented. The clinical signs, laboratory, histopathology and treatment of this pathology are discussed.

Author Biographies

María Calligaris, National University of Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina

Physician of the Specialization Course in Dermatology

Jesica Nipoti, National University of Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina

Physician of the Specialization Course in Dermatology

Mario Gorosito, Centennial Provincial Hospital, Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina

Physician of the Anatomopathology Service

María Gabriela Garrido, National University of Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina

Head of Practical Work, Chair of Dermatology

Ramón Alfredo Fernández Bussy, Centennial Provincial Hospital, Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina

Full Professor and Head of the Dermatology Service

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Published

2017-12-01