What Causes Leg Swelling After Taking Efudex?

Posted on Mon, 28 Sep 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 Answered on

Mon, 19 Oct 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Following treatment with EFFUDEX -- for some Bcc,s on her lower left leg, my 88 year old mother has developed some oedema of the area but -- unusually A not much 'pitting'-- very tense hard limb with irregular furrow like lumpiness she describes tenderness and pain. Eased on elevation. She is in overall very good health & on v little meds. Any thoughts??? Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Saddiq Ulabidin (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Limb cellulitis

Detailed Answer:
Hi! Welcome to health care magic.

Based on the history you shared, it seems as if she is suffering from cellulitis, that is subcutaneous tissue swelling or inflammation.

Since you are already following the limb rise and analgesics, use of antibiotics to cover gram positive organisms like augmentin or cephalosporins, along with anti inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen may help.

Meanwhile, doppler studies for arterial and venous flow should be performed at the earliest to rule out deep venous thrombus and arterial thrombi. If fever ensues or inflammation rapidly progresses urgent surgical review to rule out an aggressive condition called necrotising fascitis.

In persistent inflammation not responding to these options may need intravenous antibiotic cover or surgical options like incision and drainage.

Hoping her a speedy recovery. Kindly close the discussion if you don't have any more questions.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj