Splenic infarction and subsequent splenic rupture in a patient with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria and heparin-induced thrombocytopenia

Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2009 Sep;53(3):472-4. doi: 10.1002/pbc.22058.

Abstract

We describe a patient with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) and no previous history of thrombosis who presented with hepatic venous thromboses and subsequently developed splenic infarction and rupture requiring splenectomy while on anticoagulation therapy for the hepatic thromboses. The patient's anticoagulation was complicated by heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) highlighting the unique management challenge presented by PNH in combination with HIT.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Anticoagulants / adverse effects*
  • Female
  • Hemoglobinuria, Paroxysmal / complications*
  • Heparin / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Splenic Infarction / etiology*
  • Splenic Rupture / etiology*
  • Thrombocytopenia / complications*

Substances

  • Anticoagulants
  • Heparin