Severe Thrombocytopenia and Hemorrhagic Diathesis Due To Brucellosis

Abstract

Background: We aimed to examine cases of brucellosis that presented with severe thrombocytopenia and hemorrhagic diathesis. Methods: A total of 10 brucellosis cases with severe thrombocytopenia were included in this case-series study. Patients' files were reviewed for their clinical and laboratory findings, as well as clinical outcomes and complications. Platelet counts of < 20000/mm(3) were diagnosed as severe thrombocytopenia. Results: The lowest thrombocyte count was 3000/mm(3) while the highest was 19000/mm(3) (mean: 12000/mm(3)). Patients had the following symptoms: epistaxis (7 cases), petechia with epistaxis (4 cases), bleeding gums (3 cases), ecchymosis with epistaxis (2 cases), melena and renal failure (2 cases), and hematuria (1 case). Patients were given rifampicin and doxycycline along with supportive hematological therapy. All were treated successfully with no evidence of recurrence at follow-up visits. Conclusion: Since brucellosis is endemic in developing countries, it must be considered in the differential diagnosis of cases that present with severe thrombocytopenia and hemorrhagic diathesis.