A Rare Case of Leech Therapy Induced Right Foot and Leg Cellulitis with Septic Shock

Abstract

A 57 year old female came to emergency department with complaint ofpain and swelling over right foot and leg distally. On local examination there was multiple scar marks with redness and blisters formation. Patient was also giving complaint of discharge from the site since night yesterday. On further examination the patient was conscious and little drowsy but in arousable state. On further evaluation, the patient was hypotensive with tachycardia andtachypnoea. Patient was known case of Arthritis and Hypothyroidism. On further assessment attendants gave history of Leech therapy over right foot and leg distally since 20 days prior coming to emergency department. The leech therapy was started at an Ayurvedic hospital for detoxification from steroid. Patient was on steroids since long time for arthritis and she was told in ayurvedic hospital that leech therapy will detoxify her blood and remove excess steroids from her body. Patient was immediately taken on to symptomatic supportive treatment with intravenous antibiotics, intravenous fluids and ionotropic support. All relevant investigations sent from emergency department and patient was admitted in Intensive Care Unit for observation. Patient was discharged after 5 days in haemodynamically stable condition.