Acute hemorrhagic edema of infancy

Abstract

We believe that AHEI is a benign disorder, despite its dramatic appearance. We want to point out that mucosal and trunk involvement may also occur in AHEI.

Edema hemorrágico agudo da infância

“…1 The occurrence of purpuric lesions on mucosae (conjunctiva and soft palate) was also described. 5,6 Visceral involvement is rare and the few cases where it was described presented mild and transitory renal alterations, as well as gastrointestinal impairment. 1 Laboratory tests are not diagnostic.…”

“…8 The serum complement level is normal, and IgA, IgM and IgE levels may be normal or raised. 5 There is no record of isolated increase in IgA level. 1 The histopathological examination is characterized by leukocytoclastic vasculitis, with fibrinoid necrosis of vessel walls, leukocytoclasia, erythrocyte leakage and interstitial edema.…”

“…1 The histopathological examination is characterized by leukocytoclastic vasculitis, with fibrinoid necrosis of vessel walls, leukocytoclasia, erythrocyte leakage and interstitial edema. 1,2,5 The direct immunofluorescence findings are inconsistent, and deposits of fibrinogen and C3 in dermal vessels can exist or not. 9 Perivascular IgA deposits are not usually found in direct immunofluorescence, but there are reports that they may be positive in one third of the cases.…”

“…5 The relation between the IAHE and HenochSchönlein purpura is still controversial. HSP usually affects children aged 2-8 years, and manifests as purpuric lesions that do not present the annular and target-like appearance and affect mainly legs, thighs and gluteal regions, sparing face and trunk.…”

“…1,5 The use of systemic corticoids and anti-histamines does not change the course of the disease. 1,5 The complete and spontaneous resolution occurs within one to three weeks. 5 The disease has a benign course, and there are no relapses.…”