Avicenna Jouran od Phytomedicine 2020; 10(3): 222-234
Complications of leech therapy
M. Pourrahimi, M. Abdi, R. Ghods
A review article by Matineh Pourrahimi, Mojtaba Abdi, and Roshanak Ghods discusses complications associated with hirudotherapy. The work provides a comprehensive review of the risks associated with the use of medical leeches, an ancient practice used in various traditional medicine systems around the world.
Purpose of research:
The aim of the study was to analyze complications related to hirudotherapy, which are documented in the medical literature. The authors focused on identifying and categorizing various types of complications that may occur after using leeches for medicinal purposes.
Methodology:
The study was conducted as a literature review, using articles indexed in databases until July 1st, 2018. The researchers independently searched the literature using databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and others, using appropriate keywords related to leech therapy and its complications.
Results:
Articles on complications were mostly case reports. Complications are divided into five main categories:
Infections: The most frequently reported complication. Aeromonas spp. bacteria were the most common pathogens associated with infections. In most cases, prophylactic use of antibiotics was recommended.
Allergies: Allergic reactions included redness, swelling and itching where the leech was attached. In some cases, type IV hypersensitivity reactions have been observed.
Prolonged bleeding: The incidence of prolonged bleeding has been related to the anticoagulants present in leech saliva, which in some cases required medical intervention, such as the use of hemostatic agents.
Migration: On rare occasions, leeches may have migrated to undesirable locations, requiring intervention to remove or stabilize them.
Other: Less frequently reported complications included central nervous system infections following leech therapy and local skin reactions such as pseudolymphomas.
Conclusions:
Hirudotherapy, despite its effectiveness in some medical applications, is associated with the risk of serious complications. The authors emphasize the importance of conscious risk management, appropriate antibiotic prophylaxis and monitoring of patients after receiving this therapy to minimize the possibility of undesirable effects. Further research is also recommended to better understand the mechanisms and effectiveness of preventing complications related to leech therapy.