Levamisole-Adulterated Cocaine
These rashes are typical for the leukocytoclastic vasculitis produced by levamisole exposure. As of 2015, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency identified levamisole in over 90% of seized cocaine.1 Levamisole is an antihelminthic and immunomodulatory agent used in veterinary medicine. Previously used as therapy for rheumatoid arthritis and some cancers, levamisole was withdrawn from the U.S. market for human use in 2000 due to adverse effects including rash, leukopenia, and agranulocytosis.2–4
Levamisole is physically similar to cocaine and its postulated mechanisms of action include:2,3,5
- Decreased catecholamine degradation in the synapse
- Independent stimulatory effects
- Potentiate and prolong the action of cocaine via anticholinesterase activity
Levamisole exposure is associated with multiple cutaneous manifestations including:
- Vasculitis
- Purpuric lesions
- Skin necrosis
- Urticaria
- Bullae
- Dermatitis
The face and ears are commonly affected, although lesions can appear anywhere. Patients may describe fevers, malaise, fatigue, sore throat, oral ulcers, and joint pain.
Bedside Pearls
Patients presenting with rash, oropharyngeal complaints, abscesses, and fever should be asked about cocaine use to assess for levamisole exposure. In patients with any of these symptoms and a history of cocaine use, consider obtaining a
- Complete blood count
- Electrolytes
- Renal function
Additional studies may include:
- Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)
- Antineutrophil antibody (ANA)
- Antiphospholipid antibody
- Cryoglobulin
- Lupus anticoagulant
- Complement levels
- Anti-human elastase antibody
Levamisole can be detected in blood and urine; however, the window of detection is fairly short. Drug paraphernalia can also be assessed for levamisole contamination.2,3,5
Cessation of the exposure is the mainstay of therapy with targeted care indicated for dermatologic and/or infectious features.2–4 While the clinical course is typically benign, debridement and skin grafting has been necessary in some cases, and necrosis and auto-amputation have been reported. Filgrastim has been used for levamisole-associated leukopenia and sepsis. Since leukopenia frequently resolves with cessation of exposure alone, supportive care can be considered for this finding unless the patient is critically ill.4 Patients should also be advised of the dangers of continued cocaine use, including the risk of recurrent levamisole-related complications, with future exposure.4,5
