Four-extremity amputation following disseminated intravascular coagulation and purpura fulminans

Abstract

Purpura fulminans (PF) is a rare but serious complication of septic shock in adults. The complex disease course makes it challenging to manage the condition. Here, we present the case of a healthy young woman who presented with sepsis and new-onset erythematous lesions 4 days after the vaginal delivery of a healthy baby. The infectious source could not be identified, and the patient was started on antibiotics and resuscitated. However, her condition worsened, and she developed disseminated intravascular coagulation and PF. The septic episode slowly decreased in severity, but she sustained extensive ischaemic injuries to her extremities, for which she underwent four-limb amputation.