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Necrotic leg ulcers secondary to hydrophilic polymer gel emboli
Nina Sabzevari1, Brian L Schapiro2, Brian Stewart3
1Dermatology Residency, St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, Ann Arbor, Mich.
Insights
Hydrophilic polymer emboli can cause skin ulcers after endovascular procedures. Early identification of this rare complication is crucial to prevent limb loss.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Dermatology
- Pathology
Background:
- Peripheral artery disease management often involves endovascular procedures like atherectomy and angioplasty.
- Superficial femoral artery calcification can complicate these interventions.
Observation:
- A 63-year-old male developed painful, angulated ulcers with eschar on his left lower extremity one week post-procedure.
- Biopsy revealed intravascular foreign material consistent with hydrophilic polymer gel.
Findings:
- The patient's symptoms were attributed to hydrophilic polymer emboli, a rare complication of endovascular procedures.
- Retiform purpura and ulcerations following such interventions warrant consideration of this diagnosis.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis of hydrophilic polymer emboli is vital for appropriate management.
- Prompt identification can prevent misdiagnosis and potentially avoid unnecessary amputation through supportive care.
Abstract:
A 63-year-old man presented with left lower extremity ischemia and pain. Left lower extremity angiography revealed calcification throughout the superficial femoral artery, prompting atherectomy and angioplasty with a drug-coated balloon. About 1 week after the procedure, he developed angulated ulcers with central eschar on the left lower extremity and was referred to the dermatology clinic. A biopsy showed cutaneous intravascular foreign material consistent with hydrophilic polymer gel. In patients who develop retiform purpura and ulcerations after endovascular procedures, the diagnosis of hydrophilic polymer embolus should be considered. Treatment consists of supportive care, making early identification vital to avoid unnecessary amputation.
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