A Strange Occurrence of Hematohidrosis: A Case Report From Saudi Arabia

Cureus. 2022 Jan 28;14(1):e21682. doi: 10.7759/cureus.21682. eCollection 2022 Jan.

Abstract

Hematohidrosis is a rare disorder of blood excretion from the eccrine sweat gland not associated with an injury or trauma. Although several hypotheses exist to explain such a condition, the etiology of hematohidrosis remains unknown. Psychological stress is strongly linked to the condition, yet patients may present completely healthy with no identifiable etiology. The diagnosis of hematohidrosis can be difficult and requires the exclusion of bleeding disorders, vasculitis, and other disorders. Here, we present a case of hematohidrosis in a 20-year-old female who had almost weekly bloody tears, as well as gum bleeding, ear bleeding, and epistaxis for the past four months. During hospitalization, the patient was thoroughly investigated for an etiology, but no identifiable cause was found. The patient was diagnosed with hematohidrosis and treated with propranolol. Her condition had improved significantly on follow-up.

Keywords: beta-blocker; bloody sweat; case report; hematidrosis; hematohidrosis; inderal; propranolol; stress.

Publication types

  • Case Reports