Leukocytoclastic Vasculitis Masquerading as Chronic Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura.

BACKGROUND

Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura and leukocytoclastic vasculitis can present in a similar fashion and can be very hard to differentiate clinically without a biopsy. This can cause diagnostic dilemma and delay in management. A thorough evaluation is recommended to determine etiology, although about half are idiopathic.

CASE PRESENTATION: A patient aged 79 years with longstanding thrombocytopenia secondary to chronic idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura presented with a rash. Although it was thought to be secondary to idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, a biopsy revealed presence of leukocytoclastic vasculitis.

CONCLUSIONS

Although most leukocytoclastic vasculitis cases are mild and resolve without intervention, many go undiagnosed due to biopsy delays. Health care professionals should determine and treat the underlying cause.