Lovenox Induced Tissue Necrosis, a Case Report and Literature Review

J Am Coll Clin Wound Spec. 2015 Mar 18;5(3):66-8. doi: 10.1016/j.jccw.2015.03.001. eCollection 2013 Dec.

Abstract

Lovenox is a trade name for Enoxaparin. It is a low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) and has other trade names like Clexane and Xaparin. It is an anticoagulant used to prevent and treat venous thromboembolism events (VTE) like deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, and is given as a subcutaneous injection. General speaking, the most common skin reactions as a result of enoxaparin use are: urticarial, ecchymosis, and even skin necrosis due to vasculitis. These side effects are usually located at the injection site. New studies have pointed out the side effect that could occur a distance from the site of Lovenox injection. In our case extensive skin and subcutaneous tissue necrosis developed at the abdominal wall injection site.

Keywords: DVT prophylaxis; Injection site; Lovenox; Low molecular weight heparin; Skin necrosis.