Leech therapy in cutaneous surgery and disease.
J Drugs Dermatol
; 9(3): 252-7, 2010 Mar.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-20232587
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
Over the ages, the use of leeches in medicine has evolved from haphazard bloodletting to a well-understood physiologic process with defined, rational applications.OBJECTIVE:
The authors describe the current role of leech therapy in cutaneous surgery and medicine.METHODS:
Case series and review of the literature.RESULTS:
Leech saliva contains anticoagulative, anti-aggregative and vasodilatory components. Combined with the annelid's mechanical ability to extract blood, leeches can contribute to patients' health with minimal risks.CONCLUSION:
Leeches should be considered as novel therapies for disorders of coagulation and venous congestion. Implementation of leech treatment should be tempered with the potential adverse effects, including Aeromonas infection and a drop in hematocrit that might require a blood transfusion.
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Coleções:
01-internacional
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Dermatopatias
/
Retalhos Cirúrgicos
/
Aplicação de Sanguessugas
Limite:
Animals
/
Child, preschool
/
Female
/
Humans
/
Male
/
Middle aged
Idioma:
En
Revista:
J Drugs Dermatol
Assunto da revista:
DERMATOLOGIA
Ano de publicação:
2010
Tipo de documento:
Article
País de afiliação:
Estados Unidos