The protective effect of brachial plexus palsy in purpura fulminans

Acute infectious purpura fulminans is reported in a 16-month-old male with a history of posttraumatic asplenia and complete left brachial plexus palsy . This patient developed peripheral necrosis of both lower extremities and the right upper extremity, whereas the left upper extremity was completely spared from ischemia and tissue damage. Amputation of four digits on the ri ght hand and debridement of both lower extremities were required. This pati ent demonstrated the protective effect of a traumatic sympathectomy, which suggests the requirement of an intact sympathetic reflex in the development of purpura fulminans, (C) 2001 by Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserve d.