Rumpel-Leede Phenomenon Following Radial Artery Catheterisation

Rumpel-Leede phenomenon is a rarely diagnosed entity that can be seen in patients following the application of tourniquet-like forces to the extremities. This phenomenon describes petechiae and purpura secondary to venous compression and congestion, with its underlying aetiology involving the fragility of capillary vessels within the dermis. This condition is associated with chronic medical conditions such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, dyslipidemia, peripheral vascular disease and systemic inflammatory diseases, including infections. In addition, patients with coagulopathy including thrombocytopenia or platelet dysfunction from antiplatelet use, or those with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, are predisposed to capillary haemorrhage and petechiae formation. In this report, we present a case of a patient who developed Rumpel-Leede phenomenon following catheterisation of the right radial artery with spontaneous resolution - where only five cases have been reported to date - with the aim to make clinicians aware of this condition and to avoid unnecessary interventions.

Learning points: Rumpel-Leede phenomenon is a benign condition that can be seen after tourniquet-like compression of a limb in those with capillary fragility.Dermatologists and other practitioners should remain aware of the phenomenon, helping to avoid unnecessary investigation.Rumpel-Leede phenomenon self-resolves, with only supportive treatment required with no reported lingering effects to date.