Dysesthesia Pedis

The use of heparin as a therapeutic agent in patients with coronary disease, thromboembolism, and other disorders has increased rapidly. There are many reports demonstrating its value as an anticoagulant and anti-lipemic agent, but, in addition, some adverse reactions, both local and general, have been described. The role of heparin as a part of the body's reactive mechanism, as well as its role as an antigen, is being investigated. In view of this interest it seems desirable to document any unusual reactions to this agent. The cases here reported manifested an unusual side-effect from heparin. They were seen within a period of one year in a 350-bed general hospital. The symptoms—severe itching and burning on the plantar surface of the feet and toes—began, in nearly every instance, after approximately one week of heparin therapy. In all of the patients, concentrated aqueous heparin had been given subcutaneously, every 12 hours. We