What is the Gardner-Diamond syndrome?

Also known as autoerythrocyte sensitization syndrome or psychogenic purpura, this disorder is characterized by the sudden unexplained appearance of purpura in young and middle-aged women. Skin lesions are associated with times of stress and are often preceded by burning pain. Permanent damage is rare. The exact etiology of the purpura remains controversial. Patients usually deny a history of trauma. Some individuals have been reported to have a positive skin test to their own red blood cell membranes, but laboratory evaluation is usually otherwise unremarkable. Interestingly, similar lesions have been produced by suggestion under hypnosis. Most authors believe that the disorder represents a factitious dermatitis.

Archer-Dubon C, Orozco-Topete R, Reyes-Gutierrez E: Two cases of psychogenic purpura, Rev Invest Clin 50:145–148, 1998.