Varicella-associated purpura fulminans and deep vein thrombosis: a pediatric case report

Purpura fulminans (PF) and deep vein thrombosis are rare complications secondary to chicken pox disease. The presence of antibodies reflects an ongoing immunological process and requires specialized management. The present study reports a 4-year-old boy with no medical history who presented with purpura on the legs 10 days after chicken pox eruption. Laboratory tests showed a disseminated intravascular coagulation associated with low plasma protein C and S activities, and the presence of anti-protein S antibodies. A replacement therapy with protein C infusions and fresh frozen plasma was prescribed. The patient also underwent regular sessions of hyperbaric oxygen followed by the surgery. Fourteen days after the beginning of the purpuric lesions, he presented deep vein thrombosis (DVT) of the lower limbs and was treated with unfractionated heparin. This case report illustrates the pathophysiology of DVT occurring in a patient with chicken pox disease (i.e., acquired protein C and S deficiencies and anti-protein S autoantibodies) and emphasizes the utility of thrombophilia testing in order to better adapt treatment.