A Case of Acute Hemorrhagic Edema of Childhood Accompanied by Varicella / 대한피부과학회지

ABSTRACT

Acute hemorrhagic edema of childhood (AHEC) is a distinctive entity among the group of the leukocytoclastic vasculitides in childhood. AHEC is characterized by ecchymotic patches in a cockade pattern and a tender inflammatory edema on the face or upper extremities in children younger than 3 years old. It is usually confined to the skin and runs a benign course. We report a case of AHEC preceded by varicella. A 3-year-old boy presented with a 4-day history of medallion-like purpuric patches on both arms and the abdomen, along with varicella lesions. The purpuric lesions resolved completely without any complication after one week, following the resolution of the varicella. AHEC is an immune complex-mediated vasculitis that can be preceded by infection, and varicella might be a triggering factor in this case.