Brachial plexus paralysis due to giant cavernous hemangioma with Kasabach-Merritt syndrome: Successful management with interferon alpha

Peker E., KIRIMI E., Tuncer O., CEYLAN A., Öner A. C.

PLATELETS, vol.20, no.8, pp.603-605, 2009 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 20 Issue: 8
  • Publication Date: 2009
  • Doi Number: 10.3109/09537100903247790
  • Journal Name: PLATELETS
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.603-605
  • Van Yüzüncü Yıl University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Giant hemangiomas are rare in newborn babies and may cause some life-threatening complications such as congestive heart failure and coagulopathies including severe thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia and bleeding such as Kasabach-Merritt syndrome. We have presented here one infant case with a right lower brachial plexus paralysis due to giant hemangioma treated successfully with interferon alpha and have discussed the treatment. This is the first case of Kasabach-Merritt syndrome associated with a right lower brachial plexus paralysis treated with interferon in the literature to our knowledge. The administration of interferon-alpha might be indicated as a therapy for severe, life-threatening and giant hemangiomas such as Kasabach-Merritt syndrome, especially when there is resistance to steroid. However, more extensive data and new patients are needed to clarify this issue.