Infant acute hemorrhagic edema

Abstract

Background: Acute hemorrhagic edema of infancy (AHEI) is a cutaneous small vessel leukocytoclastic vasculitis characterized by purpuric plaques and edema of limbs, in a healthy infant. Clinical presentation consists in a recent history of upper respiratory tract infection and/or use of antibiotics or immunizations that triggers an immunologic response mediated by immune complexes. The main differential diagnosis is Schönlein-Henoch Purpura and it is a benign self-limited disease.

Objective: To inform about this disease and therefore increase its diagnosis.

Case Report: An 8 months-old healthy infant with edema and purpura in the face and limbs, associated with respiratory disease. Laboratory exams were normal and skin biopsy was compatible with AHEI. He didn’t receive any specific treatment and the disease improved spontaneously without recurrence. This child presents a typical case of acute hemorrhagic edema of infancy. Although it is unfrequent, skin manifestations are alarming and can mistake the diagnosis.