Levamisole-induced occlusive necrotising vasculitis in cocaine abusers: An unusual cause of skin necrosis and neutropenia

Abstract

We present three cases describing the various skin manifestations of presumed levamisole-contaminated cocaine use. Antibody-mediated vasculitis and neutropenia were consistent findings in these cases and repeat exposure resulted in distinct dermatologic complications. This phenomenon of levamisole-induced vasculitis and neutropenia is being increasingly described and has characteristic wound manifestations that must be recognised and treated early. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons Ltd and Medicalhelplines.com Inc.