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Spontaneous upper extremity compartment syndrome
Darlene M. Sparkman, MD
Ann R. Schwentker, MD
University of Cincinnati Medical Center
2015-01-07
Presenter: Darlene M. Sparkman, MD
Affidavit:
The resident directly participated in the patient's care and was involved in the majority of operative cases. She also performed all background research for discussion of this topic.
Director Name: W. John Kitzmiller
Author Category: Resident Plastic Surgery
Presentation Category: Clinical
Abstract Category: Hand
Compartment syndrome most frequently develops following trauma and is a surgical emergency often treated by plastic surgeons with operative decompressive fasciotomies. The cause is generally readily identifiable, but we present a case of compartment syndrome resulting from spontaneous bleeding due to acquired factor VIII deficiency, also known as acquired hemophilia A. This rare disease can manifest in a variety of ways, but plastic surgeons must be aware of its potential to lead to compartment syndromes. Additional non-operative treatment includes immunosuppressants aimed at decreasing the presence of factor VIII inhibitors. Care must be taken to diminish additional bleeding risks and risks associated with immunosuppression when treating these patients. Overall, acquired factor VIII deficiency is an uncommon disorder that may present as a nontraumatic compartment syndrome.
