A rapidly progressive, life-threatening postpartum hemorrhage: Successful treatment with anti-CD-20 monoclonal antibody

Elad Mei-Dan, Asnat Walfisch, Uri Martinowitz, Mordechai Hallak

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    9 Scopus citations

    Abstract

    BACKGROUND: Postpartum hemorrhage may be a life-threatening event and may result from coagulation defects. CASE: We report a case of a multigravida woman who developed rapidly progressive postpartum bleeding as a result of acquired factor VIII inhibitors. Repeated laparotomies and massive transfusions failed to achieve adequate control of bleeding. Laboratory studies revealed a prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time, and the presence of specific inhibitors was soon established. The patient responded only partially to steroids and immunotherapy. Upon administration of rituximab, an anti-CD-20 monoclonal antibody, control of bleeding was achieved. CONCLUSION: Early diagnosis of acquired hemophilia as a rare cause of postpartum hemorrhage is crucial, because specific therapy may be life saving.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)417-419
    Number of pages3
    JournalObstetrics and Gynecology
    Volume114
    Issue number2 PART 2 SUPPL.
    DOIs
    StatePublished - 1 Aug 2009

    ASJC Scopus subject areas

    • Obstetrics and Gynecology

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