[Gardner-Diamond syndrome in a young man: A case report and literature review]

Abstract

Introduction: Gardner-Diamond syndrome is a rare condition secondary to a sensitization to self-erythrocytes. It is predominantly seen in women and presents as a painful ecchymotic disorder. An underlying psychiatric disease or a triggering psychological stress is of important diagnostic value.

Case report: We report a 24-year-old patient who presented with intermittent spontaneous painful ecchymosis since 5 years. Complementary investigations failed to identify an organic disorder. Gardner-Diamond syndrome was retained because of the clinical presentation, the negativity of diagnostic work-up and the identification of a psychological trauma. Patient management (pain, psychological support) is difficult, justifying a multidisciplinary approach.

Conclusion: Gardner-Diamond syndrome is a rare and unrecognized disorder, which should be discussed in the presence of ecchymotic or purpuric lesions that do not have a diagnostic orientation. Early recognition of this disorder enables initiation of an appropriate management, but also limits unnecessary additional explorations.

Keywords: Autoerythrocyte sensitization syndrome; Gardner–Diamond syndrome; Painful bruising syndrome; Psychogenic purpura; Purpura psychogénique; Syndrome de Gardner-Diamond; Syndrome des ecchymoses douloureuses; Syndrome d’autosensibilisation érythrocytaire.