Recurrent venous thrombosis – an unusual first presentation of autoimmune polyendocrinopathy syndrome type 3B

A 45-year-old female presented with unprovoked recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE), in unusual sites, and pancytopenia, posing a complex diagnostic challenge. Work-up for inherited thrombophilia, antiphospholipid syndrome (APLS) and paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria were unremarkable. Inv...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: N Letete, D Vaz, P H Malishi, J J Pogieter, P Rheeder
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: South African Medical Association 2023-12-01
Series:South African Medical Journal
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Online Access:https://samajournals.co.za/index.php/samj/article/view/1477
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Summary:A 45-year-old female presented with unprovoked recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE), in unusual sites, and pancytopenia, posing a complex diagnostic challenge. Work-up for inherited thrombophilia, antiphospholipid syndrome (APLS) and paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria were unremarkable. Investigations revealed autoimmune thyroid disease, and a mixed iron/vitamin B12 deficiency due to pernicious anaemia and resultant atrophic gastritis. Hyperhomocysteinaemia due to vitamin B12 deficiency was identified as a potential contributor to her recurrent VTE. This case highlights the unusual initial presentation of autoimmune polyendocrinopathy syndrome type 3B (APS-3B) with recurrent thromboembolism, and emphasises the importance of considering hyperhomocysteinaemia in unprovoked and atypical VTE cases.
ISSN:0256-9574
2078-5135