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Subcorneal hematomas in excessive video game play
Maria Lennox1, Jason Rizzo1, Luke Lennox1
1School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, USA.
Cutis
|February 27, 2016
Summary
Excessive video gaming can cause subcorneal hematomas in individuals with thrombocytopenia, often linked to acute myeloid leukemia treatment. This case highlights the importance of considering gaming habits in diagnosing hand pathologies.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Hematology
- Oncology
Background:
- Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by abnormally low platelet counts.
- Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow.
- Video games are a popular form of entertainment with increasing prevalence across age groups.
Observation:
- A 19-year-old male undergoing induction chemotherapy for AML developed subcorneal hematomas on his hands.
- The hematomas appeared after prolonged periods of video game play, suggesting a link to controller friction.
- The patient had significant thrombocytopenia secondary to chemotherapy.
Findings:
- The subcorneal hematomas were attributed to the combination of thrombocytopenia and repetitive friction from video game controller use.
- This case illustrates a rare presentation of traumatic subcorneal hemorrhage in the context of medical treatment and a common recreational activity.
- A review of medical literature revealed other reported pathologies associated with video game usage.
Implications:
- Dermatologists should consider excessive video game play as a potential contributing factor in patients presenting with hand hematomas, especially those with underlying conditions like thrombocytopenia.
- Awareness of video game-associated pathologies is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management in pediatric and young adult populations.
- This case underscores the need for a comprehensive patient history that includes lifestyle factors and recreational activities when evaluating dermatological conditions.
