Leech therapy in cutaneous surgery and disease.
BACKGROUND
Over the ages, the use of leeches in medicine has evolved from haphazard bloodletting to a well-understood physiologic process with defined, rational applications.


OBJECTIVE
The authors describe the current role of leech therapy in cutaneous surgery and medicine.


METHODS
Case series and review of the literature.


RESULTS
Leech saliva contains anticoagulative, anti-aggregative and vasodilatory components. Combined with the annelid's mechanical ability to extract blood, leeches can contribute to patients' health with minimal risks.


CONCLUSIONS
Leeches should be considered as novel therapies for disorders of coagulation and venous congestion. Implementation of leech treatment should be tempered with the potential adverse effects, including Aeromonas infection and a drop in hematocrit that might require a blood transfusion.
Department of Dermatology, The Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX , USA. amamelak@gmail.com
Adam J
AJ
Mamelak
Adrianna
A
Jackson
Rabia
R
Nizamani
Ofer
O
Arnon
Nanette J
NJ
Liegeois
Richard J
RJ
Redett
Patrick J
PJ
Byrne
D000818:Animals; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D024763:Leeching; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015580:Mohs Surgery; D055665:Purpura Fulminans / Q000601:surgery; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000628:therapy*; D013524:Surgical Flaps