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Kasabach-Merritt phenomenon (KMP) is a generalized bleeding disorder that results from thrombocytopenia. This is a condition in which the number of platelets, which enable blood to clot, is reduced, and fibrinogen and some other clotting factors are depleted. It is associated with kaposiform hemangioendothelioma (KHE) and tufted angioma, but it never occurs with common infantile hemangioma.
An infant with Kasabach-Merritt phenomenon is at risk for hemorrhage and a rapid increase in the size of the tumor, with possible compression of vital structures. The mortality rate can be as high as 20 percent. The bleeding disorder resolves with effective drug treatment or spontaneous regression of the tumor.
The responsiveness to oral corticosteroid is in the range of 10-12 percent. Vincristine or interferon is more effective.
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