Pyoderma gangrenosum-like wounds in leukocyte adhesion deficiency: Case report and review of literature

Abstract

Summary: Leukocyte adhesion deficiency (LAD) is a rare primary immunodeficiency characterized by impairment of leukocyte migration during an inflammatory response. LAD patients can experience recurrent neutrophilic wounds similar to pyoderma gangrenosum (PG), predominantly of the skin and mucosal surfaces. There have been only a few reports addressing the management of extensive, lifethreatening wounds in LAD patients. We describe here both the systemic and local management employed to successfully treat a severe PG-like cutaneous lesion in the setting of LAD in a 9-year-old female. A comprehensive literature review was performed to identify previously reported similar cases. Under aggressive systemic and local management, the wound was stabilized and complete epithelialization was achieved in 8 months. Eight studies documenting 11 patients with LAD and PG-like lesions were identified in our review of the literature. The complexity of wounds associated with LAD requires an aggressive, multidisciplinary approach. Involvement of pediatrics, immunology, plastic surgery, infectious disease, and physical therapy is essential to obtaining a positive outcome. In the setting of LAD with PG-like lesions, the only viable option is allowing for closure by secondary epithelialization. This was achieved in our patient once the wound was stabilized with the systemic administration of infliximab and topical administration of tacrolimus.