Korean J Hematol.  2007 Mar;42(1):48-52. 10.5045/kjh.2007.42.1.48.

A Case of Autoerythrocyte Sensitization Syndrome in an Adult Male

• Shin HS
• Park CH
• Lee CW
• Je HJ
• Kang HD
• Lee SH

• KMID: 2252268
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5045/kjh.2007.42.1.48

Abstract

Autoerythrocyte sensitization syndrome (Gardner-Diamond syndrome), also known as painful bruising syndrome or psychogenic purpura, is characterized by sudden and spontaneous painful bruising and swelling on both extremities, and is a psychologically induced painful bruising condition. The exact etiology of the syndrome is an enigma, even today. It occurs primarily in young to middle-aged women who usually have psychogenic disorders. A diagnosis of this syndrome is made on the basis of the clinical history, dermatological examination complemented by a positive autoerythrocyte sensitization test, psychiatric evaluation and the absence of any organic cause. We present a 20-year-old man with characteristic features of this syndrome, who had a positive autoerythrocyte sensitization test. To our knowledge, this is the first case in an adult male reported in the Korean literature.

Keyword

Autoerythrocyte sensitization syndrome; Gardner-Diamond syndrome; Painful bruising syndrome; Psychogenic purpura

MeSH Terms

Adult*
Complement System Proteins
Diagnosis
Extremities
Female
Humans
Male*
Purpura
Young Adult
Complement System Proteins

Figure

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  Fig. 1 Spontaneously developed ecchymoses over the lower leg.

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  Fig. 2 Autoerythrocyte sensitization test at 4th day.

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