Transient lupus anticoagulant: an unusual cause of bruising in children.
A child presented with excessive bruising and prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time. Mixing studies in plasma were positive for phospholipid dependence of the anticoagulant, confirming a diagnosis of lupus anticoagulant. Factor II level was reduced. Laboratory findings normalised after three months, with spontaneous resolution of bruising. This case demonstrates a transient antiphospholipid antibody syndrome as a rare presentation of bleeding diathesis in a previously healthy child, and should be considered in children with new onset bruising and prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time.
Anderson
A K
AK
Department of Paediatrics, Hemel Hempstead General Hospital, UK. annakarenia@netscape.net
Mohan
U
U
Liesner
R
R
D017152:Antibodies, Antiphospholipid / Q000097:blood*; D016736:Antiphospholipid Syndrome / Q000150:complications*; D002648:Child; D003288:Contusions / Q000097:blood / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016682:Lupus Coagulation Inhibitor / Q000502:physiology*; D010314:Partial Thromboplastin Time
D017152:Antibodies, Antiphospholipid; D016682:Lupus Coagulation Inhibitor