Immune thrombocytopenia in the setting of acute SARS-CoV-2 infection

M Eduarda Caseiro Alves1, Filipa Carmo2, Madalena Malato3

  • 1Pediatria Médica, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Lisboa Central E.P.E, Hospital de Dona Estefânia, Lisboa, Portugal meavicetro@gmail.com.

BMJ Case Reports
|June 29, 2023
PubMed

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an immune-mediated event, characterised by the destruction of platelets by autoantibodies resulting in isolated thrombocytopaenia (platelets <100 x109/L). In children, most cases are preceded by a viral infection. Cases of ITP in the setting of SARS-CoV-2 infection have been described. We describe a previously healthy boy, who presented with an extensive frontal and periorbital haematoma, petechial rash on the trunk and coryza. He had suffered a minor head trauma, 9 days before admission. Blood tests revealed a platelet count of 8000/µL. The remainder study was unremarkable, except for a positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR. Treatment comprised a single dose of intravenous immunoglobulin, with increase in platelet count and no recurrence. We made a working diagnosis of an ITP concurrent with a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Although few cases have been described, SARS-CoV-2 might be considered as a trigger for ITP.

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