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Recurrent menorrhagia in an adolescent with a platelet secretion defect
Xiomara M Santos1, Jennifer L Bercaw-Pratt, Donald L Yee
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA. xmcampos@bcm.edu
Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology
|December 31, 2010
Summary
Platelet secretion defects can cause heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) in adolescents. Further testing like platelet aggregometry is crucial when initial screening for bleeding disorders is normal.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Pediatrics
- Gynecology
Background:
- Platelet function disorders are often overlooked causes of bleeding, unlike von Willebrand disease.
- Menorrhagia is a common gynecological issue in adolescents, often attributed to other causes.
Observation:
- A 13-year-old female presented with severe menorrhagia unresponsive to treatment and requiring blood transfusions.
- Initial bleeding disorder screening tests were normal, despite the severity of symptoms.
Findings:
- Specific testing revealed an unsuspected platelet secretion defect as the cause of menorrhagia.
- Platelet aggregometry identified the underlying hemostatic abnormality.
Implications:
- Platelet secretion defects may be an underdiagnosed cause of menorrhagia in adolescents.
- Platelet aggregometry is essential for diagnosing hemostatic disorders when standard tests are inconclusive.
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