Heroin-induced Ulcer Mimicking Pyoderma Gangrenosum

Main Article Content

Deep Patel
Jennifer Mardini
Christopher Chu
Max Disse
Alexandra Flamm

Keywords

Ulcer, Heroin, Pyoderma Gangrenosum

Abstract

Subcutaneous injections of illicit substances may be performed by some patients citing several advantages by the user, and can present to clinic with ulcers that clinically mimic pyoderma gangrenosum. However, it is vital to recognize heroin-induced ulcers and treat urgently to preserve function. Treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach with general medicine, dermatology, plastic surgery, wound care, infectious disease and addiction medicine. We present a patient with lower extremity ulceration due to subcutaneous injection of heroin which resembled PG.

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