Thrombotic Microangiopathy Due to Progressive Disseminated Histoplasmosis in a Child With Down Syndrome and Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Abstract

Histoplasmosis, a common mycosis in the south-central United States, may be life threatening in immunocompromised patients. We describe a 4-year-old female with Down syndrome and acute lymphoblastic leukemia who developed hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and renal failure, consistent with thrombotic microangiopathy. Bone marrow biopsy revealed non-necrotizing granulomas with GMS staining demonstrating budding yeast. Serum Histoplasma antigen testing was positive, providing further evidence for the diagnosis of progressive disseminated histoplasmosis. Treatment with amphotericin B, plasma exchange, and ventilator, vasopressor, and renal replacement support led to a full recovery. Providers should have a low threshold for histoplasmosis testing in ill immunocompromised patients, who are at greater risk for infection-related morbidity.