Nicolau syndrome (NS) is a rare complication characterized by tissue necrosis that occurs after parenteral injection of drugs. The exact pathogenesis is uncertain, but there are several hypotheses, including direct damage to the end artery, acute vasospasm and cytotoxic effects of the drug. Severe pain in the immediate post injection period and purplish discoloration of the skin with reticulate pigmentary pattern is characteristic of this syndrome. Diagnosis is mainly clinical and there is no standard treatment for the disease. Herein, we present a rare case of NS due to Diclofenac Sodium (Voltaren®) injection in an 80-year-old female suffering from Lower Respiratory Tract Infection (LRTI) who was managed conservatively.
Keywords: Nicolau Syndrome, Embolia cutis medicamentosa, Voltaren, Diclofenac sodium
