American Society of Hirudotherapy

Delayed leech-borne infection with Aeromonas hydrophilia in escharotic flap wound

Case report published in J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg (2006)

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Case reportSafety & Infection ControlArdehali B et al. · J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg, 2006

Abstract

Medicinal leeches (Hirudo medicinalis) are commonly used in plastic surgery for the salvage of congested flaps and replanted parts compromised by venous congestion. Infection associated with leech therapy is a documented complication of leech application, with reported incidences ranging from 2.4 to 20% [De Chalain TM. Exploring the use of the medicinal leech: a clinical risk-benefit analysis. J Reconstr Microsurg 1996;12(3):165-72.1]. We describe a case of delayed leech-borne infection, from the escharotic portion of a latissimus dorsi flap, which developed several days after stopping leech therapy for venous congestion in a reconstructed breast.

Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.

Publication typeCase ReportsJournal Article
Indexed MeSH termsAeromonasAnimalsBreast NeoplasmsFemaleGram-Negative Bacterial InfectionsHumansLeechesLeechingMammaplastyMastectomyMiddle AgedSurgical Flaps

Summary

Case of delayed leech-borne Aeromonas hydrophila infection from escharotic latissimus dorsi flap, developing several days after stopping leech therapy for venous congestion in a reconstructed breast.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

This case report describes a delayed leech-borne infection from the escharotic portion of a latissimus dorsi flap, developing several days after leech therapy was discontinued for venous congestion in a reconstructed breast. The abstract notes that leech-borne infection is a documented complication of medicinal leech (Hirudo medicinalis) application, with reported incidences ranging from 2.4 to 20%. For ASH's domain, this report is directly relevant as it addresses an infectious complication of hirudotherapy in a plastic-surgical setting. Caveat: This is a single case report of a delayed presentation; the abstract provides no data on treatment outcomes, organism susceptibilities, or preventive strategies beyond acknowledging the complication.

Citation

Delayed leech-borne infection with Aeromonas hydrophilia in escharotic flap wound.

Ardehali B et al. · J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg, 2006

DOI

Added to ASH library: May 27, 2026 · Site last updated: June 18, 2026

This website provides educational information and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Medicinal leech therapy carries clinically meaningful risks and should be performed only by qualified clinicians under institutionally approved protocols. FDA 510(k) clearance for medicinal leeches is limited to specific indications; investigational and off-label discussions are labeled accordingly. For patient-specific guidance, consult a qualified healthcare provider.