Symmetrical peripheral gangrene: a new presentation of an old disease
Knight, T.T.; Gordon, S.V.; Canady, J.; Rush, D.S.; Browder, W.
American Surgeon 66(2): 196-199
2000
ISSN/ISBN: 0003-1348 PMID: 10695752 Document Number: 521475
This report concerns two cases and a review of the literature on the subject of symmetrical peripheral gangrene. Symmetrical peripheral gangrene is defined as symmetrical distal ischemic damage in two or more sites in the absence of major vascular occlusive disease. It occurs in patients who are septic and have disseminated intravascular coagulation and in nonseptic patients who have cardiogenic or hypovolemic shock. The syndrome is devastating and rare, and controlled studies of its etiology and management are lacking. Recommendations are presented for its prevention and treatment. Cooperative multicenter studies may be necessary to obtain valid data about its prevention and management.