[Steal syndrome]

Abstract

Background: Ischemic steal syndrome is a complication of arteriovenous access creation for hemodialysis, and is little known among dermatologists despite the fact is fairly common and has a cutaneous presentation. Herein we report the case of a man presenting with serious ischemic injuries to the fingers associated with steal syndrome.

Observation: A 49-year-old diabetic man presented with painful acrosyndrome of the left hand, with a necrotic ulcer on the third finger appearing 5 months after the creation of an arteriovenous access. Clinical examination showed marked pain relief after manual compression of the fistula. Arteriography showed an overfunctional fistula, causing decreased distal perfusion pressure, and this was consistent with the diagnosis of steal syndrome. Banding of the anastomosis was performed but was insufficient to spare the finger from amputation.

Discussion: The aim of our case-report is to increase awareness among dermatologists of this fairly frequent complication of arteriovenous accesses. We discuss the physiopathology, risk factors, clinical features and therapeutic management of this condition. Since diagnosis of steal syndrome is fairly straightforward, early detection is essential. Only adequate surgical management can avoid gangrenous manifestations leading to more or less widespread amputation.