Postpartum peripheral symmetrical gangrene: a case report.
BACKGROUND
Symmetrical peripheral gangrene is usually associated with underlying medical problems and it is seldom seen in pregnancy. Sepsis though common in a setting of delivery by unskilled midwife is rarely accompanied by symmetrical gangrene.


METHODS
We report a case of symmetrical peripheral gangrene which occurred in the winter, triggered possibly by sepsis and a single dose of ergot. A high index of suspicion, early diagnosis and intervention with appropriate measures will result in favorable outcome in such cases.


CONCLUSIONS
Although postpartum period is of high risk for sepsis and use of ergot alkaloids is common in labor but occurrence of peripheral symmetrical gangrene is rare. A high index of suspicion for the diagnosis and timely intervention will prevent irreparable damage and loss of limb.
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University College of Medical Sciences and Associated Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Shadara, India.
Lipi
L
Sharma
Sumita
S
Mehta
Shalini
S
Rajaram
Rachna
R
Aggarwal
Sanjay
S
Gupta
Neerja
N
Goel
Ergot; Peripheral symmetrical gangrene; Postpartum