Journal List > J Korean Foot Ankle Soc > v.23(4) > 1139358

Song, Heo, Oh, and Cha: Symmetrical Digital Gangrene Resulting from Vasopressor Usage for the Treatment of Septic Shock: Case Reports

Abstract

Symmetrical Digital Gangrene (SDG) is characterized by the sudden onset of peripheral, symmetrical gangrene in the absence of any major vascular occlusive disease. Catecholamine inotropes are frequently used for the treatment of septic shock combined with an unstable hemodynamic state, and their usage can rarely induce SDG. There is no standard treatment for the SDG. Early recognition and prompt management of sepsis and expeditious process of weaning off of the inotropes are necessary to prevent progression of SDG. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report in Korea regarding the treatment of SDG induced by catecholamine inotropes.

Figures and Tables

Figure 1

Initial gross photos of the patient are shown. Digital necrotic lesions of both hands (A, B) and both feet (C, D) are shown.

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Figure 2

Twelve months follow-up gross photos of the patient are shown. Dry gangrene and autoamputated lesions of both hands (A) and right foot (B) are shown.

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Figure 3

Three-month follow-up gross photos of the patient are shown. Wet gangrene with discharge of both feet are shown.

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Figure 4

Three-month follow-up magnetic resonance images of right foot (A) and left foot (B) are shown. Multifocal marrow infiltrative lesions with enhancement of both feet are shown.

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Figure 5

Four-week follow-up gross photos of the patient are shown. Peripheral wet gangrene lesions with diffuse color changes of both forearms (A, B) and both lower extremity (C) are shown.

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Notes

Financial support None.

Conflict of interest None.

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Youn Moo Heo
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8739-2224

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