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  • Title: Five consecutive cases of a cutaneous vasculopathy in users of levamisole-adulterated cocaine.
    Author: Ullrich K, Koval R, Koval E, Bapoje S, Hirsh JM.
    Journal: J Clin Rheumatol; 2011 Jun; 17(4):193-6. PubMed ID: 21617558.
    Abstract:
    Five patients with an antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated cutaneous vasculopathy secondary to levamisole-adulterated cocaine were prospectively followed up at a single hospital. All patients presented with retiform purpura, with ear involvement being the most characteristic finding. Cocaine metabolites were present on urine toxicology screening, with 2 of 4 of those tested also being positive for levamisole. High-titer polyspecific ANCA and positive antiphospholipid antibody tests were defining laboratory features. Thrombosis and/or leukocytoclastic vasculitis were seen on skin biopsy. Improvement of skin lesions and laboratory findings occurred with cessation of cocaine; however, arthralgias and other complications developed. Levamisole-adulterated cocaine is a cause of a cutaneous vasculopathy associated with characteristic laboratory and clinical features that allow it to be distinguished from classic ANCA-associated small-vessel vasculitides. The chronic sequelae of this syndrome and the potential role for immunosuppression are yet to be completely defined.
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