Chronic Pancytopenia Due to Centrally Mediated Hypothermia in Two Children with Severe Neurological Impairment

Abstract

We report on recurrent pancytopenia over five years in two children with severe impairment of the central nervous system. Assessment by hematology did not identify an etiology, including bone marrow biopsy in one. Both patients had sustained normalized blood cell counts following interventions to maintain or return to a temperature above 33 °C. Acute cytopenias following medically induced and environmental hypothermia have been reported. Recurrent pancytopenia due to centrally mediated hypothermia in patients with severe neurological impairment is often not recognized, putting such children at risk for unnecessary testing and transfusions. We provide a practical approach to management that is feasible for caregivers in the home setting with suggestions for monitoring.