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[Antiphospholipid syndrome in children. Apropos of a case]
E Parrens1, M C Vergnes, M Jimenez
1Service de cardiologie pédiatrique, hôpital du Haut-Lévêqué, Pessac.
Insights
A pediatric case of deep venous thrombosis linked to antiphospholipid syndrome was successfully managed with anticoagulants. Recurrence occurred after stopping treatment, highlighting the need to determine optimal therapy duration.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Hematology
- Autoimmune Diseases
- Thrombosis Research
Background:
- Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder associated with an increased risk of blood clots.
- Pediatric deep venous thrombosis (DVT) requires careful evaluation for underlying causes, including APS.
Observation:
- A 10-year-old child presented with DVT without other complications.
- Diagnostic workup revealed antiphospholipid antibodies, including lupus anticoagulant and anti-cardiolipin antibodies.
- Initial treatment with oral anticoagulants led to a good clinical outcome.
Findings:
- The patient experienced a recurrence of DVT after discontinuation of anticoagulant therapy.
- Laboratory findings supported the diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome.
- The case underscores the prothrombotic nature of APS in pediatric patients.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering APS in pediatric DVT evaluations.
- The findings suggest that long-term or extended anticoagulant therapy may be necessary for pediatric APS patients.
- Further research is needed to establish definitive guidelines for the duration of preventive therapy in pediatric APS.
Abstract:
The authors report the case of a 10 year old child who presented with an uncomplicated deep venous thrombosis associated with an antiphospholipid syndrome. The diagnosis was established by the finding of spontaneous prolongation of the activated cephalin time, the finding of a lupus-like antibody and an anti-cardiolipin antibody. The clinical outcome was good with oral anticoagulants but a recurrence was observed when they were stopped. The authors discuss the question of the duration of preventive therapy.