Hemorrhage in hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome in China.

Hemorrhage is a prominent feature of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) in China. It occurs in all phases of the disease and is an important cause of death. Petechiae involving skin and oropharyngeal mucosa are the commonest manifestation of hemorrhage, occurring in more than 90% of patients. Gastrointestinal hemorrhage is the next commonest manifestation, occurring in approximately 50% of patients. Suggested mechanisms of hemorrhage include vascular injury, thrombocytopenia and platelet dysfunction, disseminated intravascular coagulation, circulating heparin-like activity, and uremia. Controlled trials of treatment regimens for hemostatic impairment in HFRS have not been performed. Support of blood pressure can lessen hemorrhage by limiting the adverse consequences of hypotension and shock. Dialysis is of benefit in patients with hemorrhage and significant renal failure.