[Acral necroses after therapy with quinine sulfate for calf cramps]

Hautarzt. 2000 May;51(5):332-5. doi: 10.1007/s001050051127.
[Article in German]

Abstract

The most common cause of acral cyanosis is vascular spasm which can be induced by several drugs. An 87-year-old woman developed red and livid skin lesions on the fingers of both hands and several toes one month after beginning treatment with quinine sulfate 200 mg daily. The skin lesions progressed to necrosis in some areas. Quinine sulfate is a widely prescribed drug for nocturnal cramps. The following side effects may develop, particularly in the elderly: exanthems, pruritus, urticaria, erythema multiforme, purpura and photosensitivity. Our case points to the possibility of acral necrosis and demonstrates the efficacy of vasodilator treatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acrodermatitis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Angiography
  • Drug Eruptions / diagnostic imaging*
  • Female
  • Fingers / blood supply
  • Humans
  • Ischemia / chemically induced
  • Ischemia / diagnostic imaging
  • Muscle Cramp / drug therapy*
  • Muscle Relaxants, Central / administration & dosage
  • Muscle Relaxants, Central / adverse effects*
  • Necrosis
  • Quinine / administration & dosage
  • Quinine / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Muscle Relaxants, Central
  • Quinine