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Bucur P, Weber M, Agrawal R, Madera-Acosta AI, Elam RE. Pulmonary-Renal Syndrome from Levamisole-Adulterated Cocaine-Induced Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody (ANCA)-Associated Vasculitis: A Systematic Review. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:846. [PMID: 37375793 DOI: 10.3390/ph16060846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Levamisole is an anti-helminthic drug with immunomodulatory properties that is added to cocaine to increase its potency and weight. Levamisole-adulterated cocaine (LAC) may cause an antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated systemic small vessel vasculitis (AAV). We aimed to characterize the phenotype of persons developing pulmonary-renal syndrome (PRS) in LAC-induced AAV and summarize its treatment and outcomes. Pubmed and Web of Science were searched (until September 2022). Reports that described co-existing diffuse alveolar hemorrhage and glomerulonephritis in an adult (age ≥ 18) with confirmed or suspected LAC exposure were included. Reports, demographics, clinical and serologic features, treatment and outcome characteristics were extracted. Of the 280 records identified, eight met the inclusion criteria, including eight unique cases. Persons were aged 22-58 years, and 50% were women. Cutaneous involvement occurred in only half of the cases. Other associated vasculitis findings and serologies were heterogeneous. All patients received immunosuppression with steroids, with cyclophosphamide and rituximab commonly added. We concluded that PRS could occur from LAC-induced AAV. Distinguishing LAC-induced AAV from primary AAV is challenging as clinical and serologic presentations overlap. Asking about cocaine use is requisite in persons presenting with PRS to guide diagnosis and appropriately counsel on cocaine cessation in conjunction with immunosuppression as treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Bucur
- Department of Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- Charlie Norwood Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30901, USA
| | - Marshall Weber
- Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Rashi Agrawal
- Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | | | - Rachel E Elam
- Charlie Norwood Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30901, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
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Farrugia S, Micallef D, Pisani D, Betts A, Vella S, Boffa MJ. Retiform Purpura of the Lower Limbs Associated with Levamisole-Adulterated Cocaine. Eur J Case Rep Intern Med 2022; 9:003353. [PMID: 35520371 PMCID: PMC9067424 DOI: 10.12890/2022_003353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A young man was treated in hospital for sepsis, disseminated intravascular coagulation and multi-organ failure. He was a regular intranasal cocaine user up to 1 day prior to symptom onset. Clinical examination revealed extensive retiform purpura affecting both his lower limbs. Skin biopsy revealed widespread thrombosis in the small- and medium-sized vessels of the mid dermis and the subcutaneous fat with surrounding leucocytoclasis. There was also extensive ischaemic necrosis of the upper reticular and papillary dermis and focal ischaemic necrosis of the epidermis. These findings were in keeping with a thrombotic vasculopathy with associated cutaneous ischaemic necrosis, likely associated with levamisole-adulterated cocaine (LAC). An autoimmune screen showed extremely raised levels of anti-B2-glycoprotein IgM, IgG and anti-cardiolipin IgG antibodies, usually seen in antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). The literature describes how APS could be secondary to various underlying conditions, including LAC, and that levamisole toxicity may mimic APS and hence be missed. LEARNING POINTS Levamisole is a common adulterant found in cocaine; the resultant toxicity can present with cutaneous manifestations, namely retiform purpura and skin necrosis, similar to antiphospholipid syndrome.Patients presenting with such features should be asked about illicit drug use, specifically cocaine, and investigated by screening urine for drugs of abuse and serum antihuman elastase antibody when possible.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - David Pisani
- Department of Pathology, Mater Dei Hospital, Msida, Malta
| | | | - Sandro Vella
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and General Medicine, Mater Dei Hospital, Msida, Malta
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Misra DP, Thomas KN, Gasparyan AY, Zimba O. Mechanisms of thrombosis in ANCA-associated vasculitis. Clin Rheumatol 2021; 40:4807-4815. [PMID: 34109491 PMCID: PMC8189705 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-021-05790-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Patients with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) have a two- to threefold greater risk of developing venous as well as arterial thrombotic events. Although such thrombotic events are more commonly seen during phases of active AAV, they are also recognized to occur during AAV in remission. Endothelial injury is a key pathogenic event in AAV. Endothelial injury can be caused by neutrophil activation and release of thrombogenic tissue factor into the circulation. Neutrophil activation further results in the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). NETs contribute to thrombosis by expressing tissue factor. NETs have also been detected in cutaneous thrombi from patients with AAV induced by hydralazine. Activated neutrophils in AAV patients release thrombogenic microparticles loaded with tissue factor which further enhances clotting of blood. Antiphospholipid antibodies (APLs) have been detected in up to a third of AAV and might also be induced by drugs such as cocaine adulterated with levamisole and propylthiouracil, which are known to trigger AAV. Such APLs further drive the thrombosis in AAV. Once thrombogenesis occurs, the homeostatic mechanisms resulting in clot dissolution are further impaired in AAV due to anti-plasminogen antibodies. The ongoing pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is associated with endothelial injury and NETosis, mechanisms which are in common with AAV. Reports of new-onset AAV following COVID-19 have been described in the literature, and there could be shared mechanisms driving these processes that require further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Durga Prasanna Misra
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS), Lucknow, India.
| | - Koshy Nithin Thomas
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS), Lucknow, India
| | - Armen Yuri Gasparyan
- Departments of Rheumatology and Research and Development, Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust (Teaching Trust of the University of Birmingham, UK), Russells Hall Hospital, Dudley, West Midlands, UK
| | - Olena Zimba
- Department of Internal Medicine #2, Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine
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Anti-phospholipid syndrome and valvular pathology. J Echocardiogr 2020; 19:190-191. [PMID: 32683628 DOI: 10.1007/s12574-020-00482-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Gehlhausen JR, Wetter DA, Nelson C, Ramachandran S, McNiff JM, Ko CJ. A detailed analysis of the distribution, morphology, and histopathology of complex purpura in hospitalized patients: A case series of 68 patients. J Am Acad Dermatol 2020; 84:1188-1196. [PMID: 32376433 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2020.04.149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Purpura in inpatients commonly leads to dermatologic consultation. The differential diagnosis is broad and algorithms are intricate. OBJECTIVE We evaluated inpatient consultations for complex purpura to document the most common diagnoses and to validate the true diagnostic utility of histopathology, clinical morphology, and distribution. METHODS We reviewed a case series of 68 inpatients during a 4-year period with a dermatologic consultation for purpura and biopsy findings of vasculitis or microvascular occlusion. RESULTS Key features of complex purpura are nonbranching (round) versus branching (retiform) morphology, dependent versus acral or generalized distribution, and leukocytoclastic vasculitis versus microvascular occlusion (with emphasis on depth of involvement). Dependent nonbranching purpura with only superficial vessels involved by leukocytoclastic vasculitis was most often due to IgA vasculitis or cutaneous single-organ small-vessel vasculitis. In contrast, deeper involvement by leukocytoclastic vasculitis was suggestive of systemic disease (eg, antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis). Branching purpura was concerning, with greater than 90% sensitivity and specificity for microvascular occlusion and associated high mortality (≈50%). The majority of patients who died had acral branching lesions. LIMITATIONS Small sample size, inpatients at a tertiary care center, and retrospective nature are some limitations. CONCLUSION Nonbranching dependent purpura corresponded to leukocytoclastic vasculitis, with the most common diagnoses being IgA vasculitis or skin-limited small-vessel vasculitis; patients with deep involvement often had systemic diseases. In this series, branching purpura was due to microvascular occlusion rather than medium-vessel vasculitis, and had associated high mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff R Gehlhausen
- Yale School of Medicine Department of Dermatology, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - David A Wetter
- Mayo Clinic Department of Dermatology, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Caroline Nelson
- Yale School of Medicine Department of Dermatology, New Haven, Connecticut
| | | | - Jennifer M McNiff
- Yale School of Medicine Department of Dermatology, New Haven, Connecticut; Department of Pathology, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Christine J Ko
- Yale School of Medicine Department of Dermatology, New Haven, Connecticut; Department of Pathology, New Haven, Connecticut.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Levamisole is an immunomodulatory medication previously used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and some types of cancers; it was banned for use in humans in 2000 owing to its harmful side effects. Use of levamisole-laced cocaine is associated with a life-threatening syndrome characterized by a necrotizing purpuric rash leading to tissue destruction and necrotic wounds. This Clinical Challenges article summarizes our experience with the care of 2 adult women diagnosed with levamisole-related vasculitis. CASE Case 1 is a 46-year-old woman who presented with joint pain in her hands and legs, along with bilateral ear pain, swelling, and bleeding. She was initially diagnosed with vasculitis and possible systemic lupus erythematosus. She experienced multiple recurrences and exacerbation of her condition over a period of months. She was ultimately diagnosed with levamisole-related vasculitis from recurrent cocaine use resulting in bilateral above the knee amputations. The second case is a 50-year-old woman who presented to our emergency department with redness and swelling of her bilateral lower extremities. She developed blisters and pustules that rapidly evolved into abscesses and red lesions over the course of several months. Her wounds also deteriorated despite topical therapy that occurred in a context of recurring use of cocaine. CONCLUSIONS Our experience with these cases suggests that WOC nurses should consider levamisole-induced vasculitis in all patients presenting with unexplained vasculitis-type lesions, and particularly when these lesions occur in the context of known or suspected use of illicit substances such as cocaine. Given the absence of clinical guidelines for this increasingly prevalent condition, we recommend wound care based on principles of moist wound healing, combined with judicious use of therapies with antimicrobial activity and nonadherent dressings to reduce pain. Finally, we strongly recommend that care of these patients occurs as one part of a multidisciplinary care approach that focuses on cessation of the use of cocaine and all other illicit substances.
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Cocaine-induced ANCA-associated renal disease: a case-based review. Rheumatol Int 2019; 39:2005-2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s00296-019-04410-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Andreussi R, Silva LMB, da Silva HC, Luppino-Assad AP, Andrade DCO, Sampaio-Barros PD. Systemic sclerosis induced by the use of cocaine: is there an association? Rheumatol Int 2018; 39:387-393. [DOI: 10.1007/s00296-018-4227-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Jin Q, Kant S, Alhariri J, Geetha D. Levamisole adulterated cocaine associated ANCA vasculitis: review of literature and update on pathogenesis. J Community Hosp Intern Med Perspect 2018; 8:339-344. [PMID: 30559941 PMCID: PMC6292360 DOI: 10.1080/20009666.2018.1536242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Levamisole is an antihelminth drug and a common cocaine contaminant, present in an estimated 71% of cocaine samples in the US. Levamisole-contaminated cocaine has been linked to an ANCA-associated vasculitis with cutaneous, renal, and pulmonary manifestations. We report the case of a 46 year old woman with known cocaine exposure who presents with recurrent, large purpuric and maculopapular rash of the extremities and face and review existing cases of levamisole/cocaine-associated ANCA vasculitis, We summarize the clinical presentation, treatment, and outcomes of levamisole induced vasculitis. There is emerging research on pathogenesis relating to neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). We review studies implicating role of NETs in the pathogenesis of levamisole induced vasculitis. Further research to explore the use of NETs as therapeutic targets in drug induced vasculitis is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuyu Jin
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sam Kant
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jihad Alhariri
- Division of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Duvuru Geetha
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Abstract
Aminorex (5-phenyl-4,5-dihydro-1,3-oxazol-2-amine) and 4-methylaminorex (4-methyl-5-phenyl-4,5-dihydro-1,3-oxazol-2-amine) are psychostimulants that have long been listed in Schedules IV and I of the UN Convention on Psychotropic Substances of 1971. However, a range of psychoactive analogues exist that are not internationally controlled and therefore often classified as new psychoactive substances (NPS). Aminorex analogues encompass failed pharmaceuticals that reemerged as drugs of abuse, and newly synthesized substances that were solely designed for recreational use by clandestine chemists. NPS, sometimes also referred to as "designer drugs" in alignment with a phenomenon arising in the early 1980s, serve as alternatives to controlled drugs. Aminorex and its derivatives interact with monoaminergic neurotransmission by interfering with the function of monoamine transporters. Hence, these compounds share pharmacological and neurochemical similarities with amphetamines and cocaine. The consumption of aminorex, 4-methylaminorex and 4,4'-dimethylaminorex (4-methyl-5-(4-methylphenyl)-4,5-dihydro-1,3-oxazol-2-amine) has been associated with adverse events including death, bestowing an inglorious fame on aminorex-derived drugs. In this Review, a historical background is presented, as well as an account of the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties of aminorex and various analogues. Light is shed on their misuse as drug adulterants of well-established drugs on the market. This Review not only provides a detailed overview of an abused substance-class, but also emphasizes the darkest aspect of the NPS market, i.e., deleterious side effects that arise from the ingestion of certain NPS, as knowledge of the pharmacology, the potency, or the identity of the active ingredients remains obscure to NPS users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Maier
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Währingerstraße 13A, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Felix P. Mayer
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Währingerstraße 13A, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Simon D. Brandt
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool, L3 3AF, UK
| | - Harald H. Sitte
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Währingerstraße 13A, 1090, Vienna, Austria
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Cocaine/levamisole-associated autoimmune syndrome: a disease of neutrophil-mediated autoimmunity. Curr Opin Hematol 2018; 25:29-36. [PMID: 29211697 DOI: 10.1097/moh.0000000000000393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Levamisole was previously used for its immunomodulatory properties to treat rheumatoid arthritis and some cancers. However, because of serious side-effects, it was taken off the market in the United States. Recently, levamisole has reemerged as a popular cocaine adulterant. Some individuals who consume levamisole-adulterated cocaine can develop a life-threatening autoimmune syndrome. In this review, the medical consequences of levamisole exposure and postulated mechanisms by which levamisole induces these adverse effects are discussed. RECENT FINDINGS Although agranulocytosis and cutaneous vasculitis are the major findings in patients who develop cocaine/levamisole-associated autoimmune syndrome (CLAAS), more recent experience indicates that other organ systems can be involved as well. Current studies point to neutrophil activation and neutrophil extracellular trap formation with subsequent antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-mediated tissue injury as a possible mechanism of CLAAS. SUMMARY In the past decade, the detrimental effects of levamisole have reemerged because of its popularity as a cocaine adulterant. Although infrequent, some individuals develop a systemic autoimmune syndrome characterized by immune-mediated agranulocytosis and antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-mediated vasculitis. Mechanistically, neutrophil antigens appear to be a major player in inducing CLAAS. Prompt cessation of levamisole exposure is key to treatment, although relapses are frequent because of the addictive effects of cocaine and the high prevalence of levamisole within the cocaine supply.
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Antiphospholipid Syndrome: Multiple Manifestations in a Single Patient-A High Suspicion Is Still Needed. Case Rep Med 2017; 2017:5797041. [PMID: 28620416 PMCID: PMC5460429 DOI: 10.1155/2017/5797041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Revised: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 05/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder with clinical and laboratory features of vascular thrombosis, pregnancy loss, and persistent antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs). The pathophysiology is thought to involve the activation of endothelial cells, monocytes, platelets, and complement by aPLs. Disease can range from asymptomatic to rapidly fatal catastrophic APS. We present a case of a 34-year-old male referred for pancytopenia and splenomegaly. On examination, he had decreased sensation and 4/5 power in the left upper extremity. A lacy, purplish rash was noted on the trunk and upper extremity. MRI of brain showed acute/subacute lacunar infarctions. Laboratory studies revealed an elevated lactate dehydrogenase level, bilirubin and ferritin, decreased haptoglobin, and positive Coombs test. Antinuclear antibody test was negative and antiphospholipid antibody panel revealed positivity for anti-cardiolipin IgG and IgM, antiphosphatidylserine IgG, and anti-β2-glycoprotein IgG. The patient was diagnosed with primary APS. Pancytopenia is relatively rare in primary APS and is more often seen in secondary APS. Our patient demonstrated involvement of multiple organ systems as well as livedo reticularis and autoimmune-related findings such as Raynaud phenomenon and Coombs positive hemolytic anemia. We discuss the various clinical and laboratory findings in patients with APS that aid in diagnosis, as well as important management considerations.
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Adverse effects of levamisole in cocaine users: a review and risk assessment. Arch Toxicol 2017; 91:2303-2313. [DOI: 10.1007/s00204-017-1947-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Carrara C, Emili S, Lin M, Alpers CE. Necrotizing and crescentic glomerulonephritis with membranous nephropathy in a patient exposed to levamisole-adulterated cocaine. Clin Kidney J 2015; 9:234-8. [PMID: 26985374 PMCID: PMC4792616 DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfv141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2015] [Accepted: 11/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Levamisole is an antihelminthic agent widely used as an adulterant of illicit cocaine recently implicated as a cause of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)–associated microscopic polyangiitis in cocaine abusers. An isolated case of membranous nephropathy (MN) associated with levamisole exposure has also been reported. We report the first case, to our knowledge, of a patient with both microscopic polyangiitis manifest as a pauci-immune necrotizing and crescentic glomerulonephritis and concurrent MN in the setting of chronic cocaine abuse and presumed levamisole exposure, raising the hypothesis that levamisole was the causative agent in the development of this rare dual glomerulopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camillo Carrara
- Department of Medicine, Service of Nephrology , Azienda Ospedaliera Papa Giovanni XXIII , Bergamo , Italy
| | - Stefano Emili
- Department of Medicine, Service of Nephrology , Aurora Kidney , Anchorage, AK , USA
| | - Mercury Lin
- Department of Pathology , University of Washington Medical Center , Seattle, WA , USA
| | - Charles E Alpers
- Department of Pathology , University of Washington Medical Center , Seattle, WA , USA
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Necrotising glomerulonephritis in levamisole-contaminated cocaine use. Nefrologia 2015; 36:76-8. [PMID: 26620419 DOI: 10.1016/j.nefro.2015.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2014] [Accepted: 03/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Nolan AL, Jen KY. Pathologic manifestations of levamisole-adulterated cocaine exposure. Diagn Pathol 2015; 10:48. [PMID: 25943359 PMCID: PMC4419488 DOI: 10.1186/s13000-015-0279-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2014] [Accepted: 04/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
ᅟ Rheumatic manifestations of cocaine have been well described, but more recently, a dramatic increase in the levamisole-adulterated cocaine supply in the United States has disclosed unique pathologic consequences that are distinct from pure cocaine use. Most notably, patients show skin lesions and renal dysfunction in the setting of extremely high perinuclear anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (p-ANCA). Unexpectedly, antibodies to myeloperoxidase, the typical target of p-ANCA, are relatively low if at all present. This discrepancy is due to the fact that p-ANCA seen in association with levamisole-adulterated cocaine exposure is often directed against atypical p-ANCA-associated antigens within the neutrophil granules such as human neutrophil elastase, lactoferrin, and cathepsin G. Biopsies of the skin lesions reveal leukocytoclastic vasculitis often involving both superficial and deep dermal vessels. Renal injury most typically manifests as crescentic and necrotizing pauci-immune glomerulonephritis. In this review, the manifestations of levamisole-adulterated cocaine-induced vasculitis are discussed with an emphasis on the typical histomorphologic findings seen on biopsy. Virtual Slides The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/1764738711370019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber L Nolan
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue, Box 0102, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA.
| | - Kuang-Yu Jen
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue, Box 0102, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA.
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Carlson AQ, Tuot DS, Jen KY, Butcher B, Graf J, Sam R, Imboden JB. Pauci-immune glomerulonephritis in individuals with disease associated with levamisole-adulterated cocaine: a series of 4 cases. Medicine (Baltimore) 2014; 93:290-297. [PMID: 25398064 PMCID: PMC4602417 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000000090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to levamisole-adulterated cocaine can induce a distinct clinical syndrome characterized by retiform purpura and/or agranulocytosis accompanied by an unusual constellation of serologic abnormalities including antiphospholipid antibodies, lupus anticoagulants, and very high titers of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies. Two recent case reports suggest that levamisole-adulterated cocaine may also lead to renal disease in the form of pauci-immune glomerulonephritis. To explore this possibility, we reviewed cases of pauci-immune glomerulonephritis between 2010 and 2012 at an inner city safety net hospital where the prevalence of levamisole in the cocaine supply is known to be high. We identified 3 female patients and 1 male patient who had biopsy-proven pauci-immune glomerulonephritis, used cocaine, and had serologic abnormalities characteristic of levamisole-induced autoimmunity. Each also had some other form of clinical disease known to be associated with levamisole, either neutropenia or cutaneous manifestations. One patient had diffuse alveolar hemorrhage. Three of the 4 patients were treated with short courses of prednisone and cyclophosphamide, 2 of whom experienced stable long-term improvement in their renal function despite ongoing cocaine use. The remaining 2 patients developed end-stage renal disease and became dialysis-dependent. This report supports emerging concern of more wide spread organ toxicity associated with the use of levamisole-adulterated cocaine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Q Carlson
- Divisions of Rheumatology (AQC, JG, JBI) and Nephrology (DST, BB, RS), Department of Medicine, San Francisco General Hospital and University of California, San Francisco; and Department of Pathology (KYJ), University of California, San Francisco, California
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Ammar AT, Livak M, Witsil JC. Old drug new trick: levamisole-adulterated cocaine causing acute kidney injury. Am J Emerg Med 2014; 33:309.e3-4. [PMID: 25195046 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2014.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2014] [Accepted: 08/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Levamisole is an agent previously used in humans and later withdrawn from the US drug market due to concerns of agranulocytosis.It is currently used as an adulterating agent in cocaine, bringing to light toxicities typically manifested by vasculitis and skin necrosis.We report a case of a 36-year-old crack cocaine user who presented with a purpuric rash on her face and limbs. Levamisole-induced vasculitis was suspected, and she therefore underwent an extensive work-up. In addition to these findings, she also presented with acute kidney injury of unknown etiology, which was later attributed to levamisoleadulterated cocaine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abeer T Ammar
- John H. Stroger, Jr Hospital of Cook County, Department of Pharmacy, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Mark Livak
- John H. Stroger, Jr Hospital of Cook County, Department of Emergency Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Joanne C Witsil
- John H. Stroger, Jr Hospital of Cook County, Department of Pharmacy, Chicago, IL, USA; John H. Stroger, Jr Hospital of Cook County, Department of Emergency Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
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Pieralli F, Grazzini M, Vannucchi V, Mancini A, Cammelli D, Nozzoli C. Recurrent episodes of hemorrhagic alveolitis in relapsing catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome: the same side of the dark moon. Clin Rheumatol 2013; 33:429-33. [PMID: 24362787 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-013-2454-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2013] [Revised: 10/28/2013] [Accepted: 11/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome (CAPS) is a rare variant of antiphospholipid syndrome characterized by widespread thrombotic microangiopathy and multiorgan failure. Clinically, CAPS signs and symptoms can mimic vasculitis of systemic lupus erythematosus, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. CAPS is burdened by high mortality, nearly 50% in most series. However, patients surviving the acute phase rarely suffer of CAPS relapses. Moreover, concomitant pulmonary hemorrhagic alveolitis is a very rare complication warranting an ominous prognosis. Only few reports of relapsing CAPS are described in literature, and pathogenetic mechanisms are poorly understood and the optimal treatment is yet unknown. We report a case of a young man suffering from multiple relapses of CAPS and recurrent hemorrhagic pulmonary alveolitis refractory to aggressive combination treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Pieralli
- Internal and Emergency Medicine Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy
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Abstract
Levamisole-contaminated cocaine has recently been recognized in North America and Europe, and its use is associated with a variety of clinical and autoimmune abnormalities. The clinical characteristic seems to be the presence of a painful purpuric skin rash that predominantly affects the ear lobes and cheeks, often accompanied by systemic manifestations including fever, malaise, arthralgias, myalgias, and laboratory abnormalities, for example leukopenia, neutropenia, positive ANA, ANCA, and phospholipid antibodies. Most of these manifestations can be seen with the use of either drug, especially levamisole. There is no specific therapy, and discontinuation of its use is followed by improvement. Prednisone and immunosuppressive therapy may be needed at times. Further use of the drug is characterized by recurrence of most of the complaints.
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Massera D, Bachhuber M, Shen L, Karambelkar A. Vasculitis in a cocaine user. BMJ Case Rep 2012; 2012:bcr-2012-007379. [PMID: 23144356 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2012-007379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Massera
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
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25
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Belfonte CD, Shanmugam VK, Kieffer N, Coker S, Boucree S, Kerr G. Levamisole-induced occlusive necrotising vasculitis in cocaine abusers: an unusual cause of skin necrosis and neutropenia. Int Wound J 2012; 10:590-6. [PMID: 22716045 DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-481x.2012.01027.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassius D Belfonte
- Division of Cardiology, Howard University Hospital, Washington, DC, USA Division of Rheumatology, Immunology and Allergy, Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC, USA Division of Rheumatology, Veterans Affairs Hospital, Washington, DC, USA Department of Internal Medicine, Howard University Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
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