Deep Vein Thrombosis in Lepromatous Leprosy: A Case Report of Secondary Pediatric Antiphospholipid Syndrome

Abstract

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is a rare autoimmune disorder characterized by thromboembolic events, fetal loss during pregnancy, and evidence of antiphospholipid (aPL) antibodies such as beta-2-glycoprotein I (B2-GPI) and anticardiolipin (aCL). The diagnosis and treatment of this condition in the pediatric population have limited literature evidence due to the rarity of the condition in this age group. Guidelines have been adopted from the adult counterpart of the affected population, thereby giving rise to diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. In this report, we describe a rare case of a 15-year-old male who presented with lepromatous leprosy and developed deep vein thrombosis in his right leg. The laboratory evidence of positive aPL antibodies guided our diagnosis of APS and treatment with oral anticoagulants. This report highlights the importance of screening and timely diagnosis of APS in the pediatric population presenting with venous thrombosis in the backdrop of infection.

Challenging in leprosy relapse with antiphospholipid syndrome diagnosis: A case report

“…Between these two poles, unstable, intermediate forms-termed "borderline" leprosy-may shift toward either pole. [6][7][8] Moreover, the study by Jones et al 9 described a case of leprosy concurrent with APS. In contrast, we report a similar adult case, presenting analogous laboratory test results.…”

“…Between these two poles, unstable, intermediate forms—termed “borderline” leprosy—may shift toward either pole 6–8 . Moreover, the study by Jones et al 9 . described a pediatric case of leprosy concurrent with APS.…”

“… 6 , 7 , 8 Moreover, the study by Jones et al. 9 described a pediatric case of leprosy concurrent with APS. In contrast, we report a similar adult case, presenting analogous laboratory test results.…”