Hemangioma thrombocytopenia syndrome. A case masquerading as an encephalocele

The association of hemangioma and thrombocytopenia has been recognized since 1940. We cared for a newborn boy whose hemangioma resembled an occipital encephalocele. The true diagnosis was suspected only when his platelet count dropped to 3,000/cu mm with severe intestinal hemorrhage on the third day of life. The diagnosis was confirmed by arteriography. The hemangioma was excised surgically, and the platelet count returned quickly to normal. The baby has done well subsequently. When feasible, surgical excision of the platelet-trapping hemangioma is the treatment of choice in the hemangioma thrombocytopenia syndrome.