An adolescent case of post-ictal diffuse alveolar hemorrhage
10.4168/aard.2026.14.1.34
- Author:
Hyo-Bin KIM
1
;
Dae Hyun LIM
;
Jeong Hee KIM
Author Information
1. Department of Pediatrics, Inha University Hospital, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
- Publication Type:CASE REPORT
- From:Allergy, Asthma & Respiratory Disease
2026;14(1):34-37
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) is a rare but life-threatening condition characterized by bleeding into the alveolar spaces because of damage to the pulmonary microvasculature. While it is commonly associated with autoimmune or coagulation disorders, post-ictal DAH following a generalized tonic-clonic seizure is extremely rare, especially in pediatric populations. We report the case of a previously healthy 13-year-old boy with allergic rhinitis and buckwheat allergy who presented with his first generalized tonicclonic seizure. Following admission, he developed dyspnea and tachypnea (respiratory rate of 38/min); on hospital day 2, oxygen desaturation (SaO 2 88%) accompanied by hemoptysis. Laboratory tests showed no evidence of coagulopathy or autoimmune disease. Chest radiography and computed tomography revealed bilateral pulmonary infiltrates consistent with alveolar hemorrhage.Intravenous methylprednisolone (1 mg/kg for 3 days) was administered, resulting in rapid improvement of respiratory symptoms and imaging findings. This case highlights the importance of early clinical suspicion and imaging-based diagnosis of post-ictal DAH, and the necessity of prompt supportive management to achieve favorable outcomes.
