Acute haemorrhagic oedema of infancy in a 5-week-old boy referred to the Child Protection Unit

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dermatology
• Vascular Lesions in Infants

Background:

• Acute haemorrhagic oedema of infancy (AHO) is a rare, benign vasculitic condition.
• It typically affects infants and young children, presenting with characteristic purpuric and oedematous skin lesions.

Observation:

• A 5-week-old infant boy presented with sudden onset purpura and oedema affecting his hands and torso.
• The infant was otherwise well, with no history of preceding illness or trauma.
• Initial laboratory investigations were unremarkable.

Findings:

• Differential diagnoses, including inflicted trauma, were considered and deemed unlikely after a thorough review.
• A dermatology consultation led to a clinical diagnosis of acute haemorrhagic oedema of infancy (AHO).

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of recognizing AHO in infants presenting with purpura and oedema.
• Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial to avoid unnecessary investigations and parental anxiety.
• Understanding AHO's clinical presentation aids in differentiating it from non-accidental trauma in infants.