Necrosis of the breast: A rare complication of anticoagulant therapy

Abstract Three cases of hemorrhagic necrosis of the breast after Dicumarol therapy are presented. Hemorrhagic necrosis has a distinctive gross appearance which should be recognized easily and occurs almost inevitably between the third and eighth day of anticoagulant therapy. The definite time of onset and appearance should make the diagnosis simple. Vasculitis, extensive hemorrhage, and necrosis are seen histologically. Surgical therapy is usually necessary to prevent infection and slough of the breast. The necessity of separating the necrotic lesion from simple hemorrhage is emphasized.