[Ano-cutaneous gangrenous ergotism].

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Dermatology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Ergotamine tartrate is commonly used for migraines.
• Abuse of ergotamine tartrate can lead to ergotism, characterized by vascular spasms.
• The systemic effects of ergotamine tartrate abuse are well-documented.

Observation:

• A patient presented with multiple perianal ulcers.
• These ulcers developed following the abuse of ergotamine tartrate suppositories.
• The clinical presentation mimicked ergotism.

Findings:

• Topical application of ergotamine tartrate suppositories led to the development of cutaneous ulcers.
• Vascular spasm is a known complication of ergot abuse.
• The occurrence of cutaneous ulcers from topical ergot application was previously unreported.

Implications:

• This case highlights a novel presentation of ergotism.
• Clinicians should consider topical ergotamine abuse in patients with unexplained perianal ulcers.
• Further research is needed to understand the mechanism of cutaneous ulceration in topical ergotism.