Haemophagocytosis in early congenital syphilis

Abstract

A previously healthy male infant developed hepatosplenomegaly, severe anaemia and thrombocytopenia 5 weeks after birth. Marked haemophagocytosis was present in the bone marrow. A typical maculopapular rash suggested early congenital syphilis. The diagnosis was confirmed by serology and by the presence of untreated syphilis in both parents.

Conclusion: Syphilis needs to be excluded in infants suspected of haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis.