A Case of Acquired Platelet Dysfunction with Eosinophilia in Our Hospital “Omer Nishani”, Gjirokaster

Abstract

Acquired platelet dysfunction with eosinophilia (APDE) first reported in 1975 is an acquired, transient bleeding disorder of unknown etiology characterized by spontaneous ecchymosis, eosinophilia and platelet dysfunction. This bleeding disorder, otherwise known as “non-thrombocytopenic purpura with eosinophilia”, occurs commonly in indigenous Southeast Asian children. Cases of APDE occur rarely outside this endemic area. This syndrome runs a benign course and patients can recuperate spontaneously from the bleeding episodes within 6 months to a year. The aim of our case report is to highlight the importance of recognizing this little known bleeding disorder in our daily clinical practice. We reported the first documented case of a 7 year old girl managed in our hospital “Omer Nishani”, with clinical features characteristic of APDE. The patient was in good health, presented with spontaneous bruising on the extremities with no organomegaly. Marked eosinophilia and prolonged bleeding time with normal platelet count were noted on laboratory work-up. The patient was started on antiparasitic therapy despite negative stool results, and subsequent follow-up after 3 weeks showed resolution of ecchymosis and eosinophilia. Awareness of this benign bleeding disorder, which clinically mimics Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) would help to diagnose and treat early, and lessen parental anxiety.