[Severe ischemia of the lower limbs after ingestion of LSD]

A case of severe limb ischaemia predominating in the legs in a young female drug addict is reported. Arteriography revealed diffuse spasm of all arteries of the lower limbs associated with localised spasm along the profunda artery in particular. These appearances regressed on control angiography performed 10 days later. The treatment which associated volume expanders and intravenous vasodilatation agents (magnesium sulphate) led to rapid improvement in the clinical condition in 3 days. There were no long-term complications. The causative role of LSD was suggested by the history of greatly increased intake in the period before the onset of symptoms. LSD is a derivative of lysergic acid, the common nucleus of the derivative of the ergot of rye. Analysis of a sample dose taken by the patient showed a very large quantity of LSD and of lysergic acid and a very small amount of other ergot alkaloids known for their peripheral vasoconstrictor effects. The circumstances following peripheral ischaemia are discussed; the association of haschich - LSD does not seem to be a factor. The increased doses and a predisposed vascular system, in common with ergot containing drugs, seem to be the major factors.