Focal subdermal toxicity with subcutaneous opioid infusion in patients with cancer pain

Few significant side effects have been reported from the treatment of cancer pain by subcutaneous infusion of opioids. In this prospective year-long study, 8 of 13 patients treated by this technique experienced painful chronic focal toxicity, manifested by induration, erythema and subdermal necrosis during subcutaneous analgesia therapy. A hydraulic-irritation effect is suggested.