Severe microangiopathic hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia in a child with Brucella infection

Abstract

We present a case of severe microangiopathic hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia with epistaxis, gross hematuria, hemoglobinuria, and skin purpura in a child with Brucella septicemia proven by culture. The patient showed the features of this illness: leukopenia, severe hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, fragmentation of erythrocytes in the peripheral blood smear, increased erythropoiesis, megakaryopoiesis, and granulomata cell invasion in the bone marrow. The patient was treated with rifampin and doxycycline. Platelets and leukocyte numbers rose to normal values by the 6th day. She was discharged on the 14th day. Follow-up of the patient 1 year later showed normal bone marrow morphology. Differential diagnosis, pathogenesis, and therapy of Brucella infection are discussed.