Bleeding manifestations apparently unrelated to coagulation or other organic disorders: A tentative classification and diagnostic clues

Objective: To study the features of bleeding conditions apparently not associated with vascular, platelet, or clotting dysfunctions. Method:Conditionsthatmaymeetthesecriteriaare:Münchausensyndromefactitiousorfictitious,suicidalor homicidal bleeding, bleeding due to self-punishment, stigmatization, the battered child syndrome, and psychogenic bleeding. Results: The importance of these variegate conditions is not trivial in clinical practice. Differential diagnosis may be difficult and involve other specialists besides hematologists. Occasionally, invasive procedures are involved. Discussion: The occurrence of bleeding in patients, without a clotting defect or a systemic disorder and a negative family history for bleeding represents a diagnostic challenge. A careful examination of the physical and psychological status of the patient and an appropriate evaluation of the environment in which bleeding occurs, is always needed