American Society of Hirudotherapy

A case of irritant contact dermatitis with leech

Case report published in Cutaneous and ocular toxicology (2011)

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Case reportClinical TrialsSafety & Infection ControlKaradag AS et al. · Cutaneous and ocular toxicology, 2011

Abstract

Medicinal leeches are invertebrated parasites that have been used for medical purposes for centuries as one of the traditional treatment methods. Medicinal leeches are used for wound and flap healing in the plastic and reconstructive surgery, in the treatment of venous insufficiency, varicosities, hemorrhoids, and in many other diseases. However, due to medicinal leech therapy (hirudotherapy) complications such as anaphylaxis, local allergic reactions, anemia, and mucosal synechiae can occur. In this article, we report a case of an irritant contact dermatitis in a patient who experienced severe redness and itching after applying leeches for the relief of head and neck pain. Leeches are being used widely in some regions in the world and if people are informed about the leeches, it may be helpful in preventing complications that may occur.

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

Publication typeCase ReportsJournal Article
Indexed MeSH termsAdultAnimalsDermatitis, IrritantDiagnosis, DifferentialHirudo medicinalisHumansLeechingMaleTreatment Outcome

Summary

Medicinal leeches are invertebrated parasites that have been used for medical purposes for centuries as one of the traditional treatment methods.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

This case report describes a patient who developed irritant contact dermatitis, presenting with severe redness and itching, after applying medicinal leeches for relief of head and neck pain. The article is directly relevant to the American Society of Hirudotherapy as it documents a specific dermatological complication of leech therapy and notes that complications such as anaphylaxis, local allergic reactions, anemia, and mucosal synechiae can occur with medicinal leech use. The authors suggest that informing people about leeches may be helpful in preventing complications that may arise. However, the scope of this article is limited to a single case, providing no systematic data on the incidence, prevalence, or comparative risk of contact dermatitis associated with leech therapy.

Citation

A case of irritant contact dermatitis with leech

Karadag AS et al. · Cutaneous and ocular toxicology, 2011

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.