Unusual vaginal bleeding due to a leech bite in a girl from a tropical area: A case report

Abstract

This study describes the isolation of a leech following the presentation of unusual vaginal bleeding. Vaginal bleeding in children due to a leech bite is very rare. This is the first report of severe bleeding in a virgin 14-year-old girl from Mashhad, Iran due to the presence of a leech in the vagina.

Cellulitis Caused by Hirudo orientalis Bites That Lead to an Allergic reaction

“…Finally, in emergency situations, leech detachment is required. Simple methods such as perfuming a strong salt solution, lighting a match, consuming alcohol, and others suggested in the articles can be used [ 5 ].…”

“…Most of them are predominantly bloodsuckers from vertebrate and invertebrate animals [ 4 ]. However, severe injuries to the internal viscera by leech bites are uncommon [ 5 , 6 ]. When they do occur, they can cause serious morbidity and may even have fatal consequences [ 7 ].…”

Upper GI Bleeding Due to Leech Infestation in Ethiopian Patients: A Case Series and Review of Literature

“…surfaces of the upper body, aquatic leeches primarily inhabit the nose, nasopharynx, oropharynx, and vagina, resulting in a variety of clinical presentations such as hemoptysis, epistaxis, vaginal bleeding, and shortness of breath. [6][7][8][9][10][11] If the leech enters the esophagus and upper gastrointestinal tract, patients may experience vomiting and hematemesis, with the leech being automatically removed with the vomitus in some cases. 11,12 Leech infestation of the lower GI tract presents with painless, bright red rectal bleeding in most cases.…”

Leech Infestation in the Vulvar Region: Causes of Vaginal Bleeding in a Six years old Child

“…[2][3][4] Leech bites can occur on various orifices of the body including internal body cavities and orifices, such as the uterus, rectum, urinary bladder, vulva, nasal cavity, peritoneal cavity, nasopharynx, oropharynx, oesophagus, trachea, bronchi and the vagina. 5 Different chemicals for leech removal have been utilized and include anesthetics drugs like lidocaine and topical anesthetic spray. Salt, saline, vinegar, alcohol, and heat are also viable options.…”

“…Leech bites can occur on various orifices of the body including internal body cavities and orifices, such as the uterus, rectum, urinary bladder, vulva, nasal cavity, peritoneal cavity, nasopharynx, oropharynx, oesophagus, trachea, bronchi and the vagina. 5 …”