Advances in cardiology. II: Edited by Prof. Dr. R. Hegglin and E. Luthy, Zurich, Switzerland. Basel and New York, 1959, S. Karger, 337 pages, 139 illustrations, Price: 59 sFr

Abstract

May–Hegglin anomaly (MHA) is a rare familial bleeding disorder characterized by a triad of thrombocytopenia, giant platelets, and Döhle-like inclusion bodies within the leukocytes. The clinical spectrum as well as the pathophysiology of this entity is not well defined. The objective of this work is to present a series of three cases of MHA diagnosed in our hospital, where the patients presented with variable bleeding manifestations, thrombocytopenia, and giant platelets.We studied three cases of possible MHA. In addition to the clinical examination, complete hemogram, and peripheral blood smear examination, these patients were also subjected to coagulation studies. Although bleeding symptoms varied among these patients, platelet aggregation tests with various agonists showed a normal response.Consistent findings of this entity noted in our patients were mild-to-moderate thrombocytopenia, giant platelets, and Döhle-like inclusions within the leukocytes.A diagnosis of MHA could be made based on a thorough peripheral blood smear examination, which also helps to avoid a misdiagnosis of immune thrombocytopenia.