Menorrhagia in a teenager: a rare presentation of paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria

Authors

  • Salma Sadaf Department of Paediatrics, Employees’ State Insurance Corporation Medical College and Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
  • Pushpalatha Kariyappa Department of Paediatrics, Employees’ State Insurance Corporation Medical College and Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2349-3291.ijcp20210670

Keywords:

PNH, Menorrhagia, Teenager, Pancytopenia, Hemoglobinuria, Nocturnal, Aplastic anemia

Abstract

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a rare clonal disorder characterised by complement mediated hemolysis, thrombosis and bone marrow failure due to mutation of PIG A gene on chromosome X which codes for decoy proteins Glycoprotein anchor (CD55 and CD59) on hematopoietic stem cells. Onset of PNH is typically seen in adulthood. Pediatric cases account for 5-10% of all reported cases. It is largely underdiagnosed in children because of varied presentation and atypical symptoms. Here, we report a young girl who presented with menorrhagia and severe pallor which when evaluated unmasked the underlying PNH with aplastic anemia. She underwent a successful hematopoietic stem cell transplant. She has remained asymptomatic for 2 years highlighting the need for early evaluation and management for a better outcome.

References

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Published

2021-02-23

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Section

Case Reports