Skin necrosis as a consequence of coumadin therapy

Skin necrosis secondary to Coumadin-congener therapy is a rare, unpredictable complication. A case is reported of a patient given sodium warfarin therapy following coronary artery bypass who developed skin necrosis of the trochanteric region, bilaterally, and the right breast on the fourth day following administration of Coumadin. The Coumadin therapy was discontinued, and the areas of skin necrosis went on to slow, spontaneous healing. However, significant subcutaneous induration persisted, although the areas were no longer painful.