[Multi-organ involvement in recurrent Moschcowitz disease. Splenectomy as ultima ratio in a therapeutic dilemma?].

BACKGROUND

The symptoms primarily described in Morbus Moschcowitz included thrombocytopenic purpura and hemolytic anemia. In addition it presents with a variety of clinical manifestations depending on the organs involved (i.e. neurological, renal, gastrointestinal, cardiac involvement). It is a rare disease and the pathogenesis still remains unclear. The efficacy of derived therapeutical concepts can hardly be assessed in controlled trials.

CONCLUSION

Currently the main option seems to be plasma therapy. In non-responders surgical procedures (splenectomy) may be of benefit to the patient.