Multiple mucocutaneous ulcers associated with cocaine-induced midline destructive lesions

Abstract

Cocaine-induced midline destructive lesions (CIMDL) occur in a small subset of cocaine users, who clinically present with inflammation and necrosis of facial midline structures such as the palate, nasal septum, turbinates, and sinuses. We present a patient with CIMDL occurring concomitantly with ulcers on the cheek and upper trunk. Multiple biopsy specimens from the cutaneous and mucosal lesions consistently showed a dense dermal/submucosal infiltrate of neutrophils and plasma cells, without vasculitis or thrombosis. The ulcers resolved following cessation of cocaine use.