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

S Afr Med J. 2023 Dec 31;114(1):17-21. doi: 10.7196/SAMJ.2024.v114i1.1477.

Abstract

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.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Polyendocrinopathies, Autoimmune* / complications
  • Polyendocrinopathies, Autoimmune* / diagnosis
  • South Africa
  • Venous Thromboembolism* / diagnosis
  • Venous Thrombosis* / diagnosis
  • Venous Thrombosis* / etiology
  • Vitamin B 12 Deficiency* / diagnosis