de Vitry A, Valois A, Weinborn M, Dupuy-de Fonclare AL, Cuny JF, Barbaud A, Schmutz JL. [Acquired haemophilia A: two cases].
Ann Dermatol Venereol 2014;
141:441-5. [PMID:
24951143 DOI:
10.1016/j.annder.2014.03.012]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2013] [Revised: 02/17/2014] [Accepted: 03/03/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Acquired haemophilia A (AH) is an uncommon bleeding disorder that presents as multiple, disseminated spontaneous subcutaneous bleeds. Diagnosis may be made on the basis of prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). The severity of the disease is associated with the low risk of haemoglobin levels and with potential links with other diseases.
OBSERVATIONS
Two men were hospitalized for extensive and spontaneous subcutaneous hematoma. In both cases, the International Normalized Ratio (INR) was normal, but aPTT was 3 times higher than normal. Autoantibodies against coagulation factor VIII confirmed the diagnosis of AH. The patients received immunomodulatory treatment. In one patient, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma was discovered one year after successful treatment of AH.
DISCUSSION
AH may be revealed by areas of bruising, subutaneous haematomas mimicking erythema nodosum, and muscle pain. APTT results alone can prompt the biologist to screen for factor VIII inhibitors. Aside from the risk of fatal bleeding, in half of all cases, the prognosis is determined by associated disorders such as blood dyscrasias, solid tumours, autoimmune diseases, use of certain medicines and pregnancy. After treatment for bleeding complications, therapy focuses on restoring the coagulation time. The aim of immunomodulatory therapy is to stem production of autoantibodies against coagulation factor VIII.
CONCLUSION
AH must be considered rapidly in order to reduce the risk of bleeding emergencies and to screen for potential related diseases.
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