Leech-borne Serratia marcescens infection following complex hand injury.
Leeches are commonly used in the postoperative course of plastic surgical operations where there is venous congestion in a pedicled or free flap. They provide a temporary relief to venous engorgement whilst venous drainage is re-established. It is known that leeches can carry Aeromonas hydrophila infection, and a second or third generation cephalosporin antibiotic has traditionally been given as prophylaxis against infection. We report a new observation that leeches can carry Serratia marcescens and give rise to clinically significant infection. The implication for prophylaxis and treatment of leech-associated cellulitis is discussed.
Pereira
J A
JA
Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, St George's Hospital, London, UK.
Greig
J R
JR
Liddy
H
H
Ion
L
L
Moss
A L
AL
D000328:Adult; D000818:Animals; D005260:Female; D005383:Finger Injuries / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D007865:Leeches / Q000382:microbiology*; D018962:Phlebotomy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D012092:Replantation; D016868:Serratia Infections / Q000635:transmission*; D012706:Serratia marcescens