[Loxoscelism with acute compartment síndrome: A case report with successful conclusion]

Loxoscelism is a toxic clinical condition caused by the bite of spiders of the genus Loxosceles, with wide distribution throughout the world.1 Phospholipase D is responsible for dermonecrosis, inflammation, platelet aggregation, hemolysis, alteration of vascular permeability, cytotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, acute renal failure, among other symptoms involved with this protein.

27-year-old male patient, who began with a sudden episode of intense pain in the right hand, in the metacarpus and metacarpophalangeal joints. On clinical examination, the upper extremity was noted to have increased volume, extensive edema, hyperemia, and increased local temperature; The lesion progressed to extensive necrosis. Fasciotomies were performed, from distal to proximal, and release of the second and third finger compartment through longitudinal radial and ulnar incisions. A skin autograft was placed, obtained from the anterior surface of the right thigh. Opioid analgesics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, and antibiotics were administered. The skin biopsy reported: inflammatory infiltrate with neutrophils, ulceration, and bacterial colonies. After 27 days he had a favorable evolution, so he was discharged to his home, with follow-up by staff from the Outpatient Service.

Cutaneous loxoscelism, as a cause of acute compartment syndrome of the hand, is rare, but should be considered in an area endemic for Loxosceles spp. Surgical decompression of the affected compartments represents a decisive factor in the treatment of patients.