Acute Hemorrhagic Edema of Infancy is a rare, benign leukocytoclastic vasculitis, more common in boys between 4 and 24 months old, characterized by sudden onset of purpuric lesions, more common localized on the face, earlobes, and limbs, often associated with edema of the extremities. The etiology is unknown, although in 75% of cases, it’s preceded by infection, immunization, or exposure to drugs [1-3].

A healthy 5-month-old female developed a sudden purpuric rash on both earlobes and face. There was no fever or other symptoms and no recent history of vaccination. The infant appeared with palpable purpuric plaques in an annular pattern on the left cheek and earlobes, accompanied by mild swelling on the right ear. It also had purpuric lesions on the upper and lower limbs (Figure 1-3). It presented with leukocytosis (25800/uL), thrombocytosis (763000/uL), CRP 4.5mg/dL and normal coagulation. It was discharged with symptomatic measures and monitoring for alarm signs.

Although it’s an infrequent condition, it should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a petechial/purpuric rash. The prominent manifestations of cutaneous lesions contrast with the good health of the child. It’s a self-limited disease with no specific treatment, resolving spontaneously within 1 to 3 weeks [1-3].

Keywords: Acute hemorrhagic edema; Infant; Vasculitis; Purpuric; Rash