National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center, a program of the National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences

Gardner-Diamond syndrome

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I would like more information on my illness. I have Gardner-Diamond syndrome. I would like to know the statistics of the disease. How many people are affected by it? Is it something that will go away, or will I have it forever? I am really confused on what this disease actually is since it is really rare.

The following information may help to address your question:


What is Gardner-Diamond syndrome?

Gardner-Diamond syndrome (GDS) is a rare condition characterized by episodes of unexplained, painful bruising that mostly occurs on the arms, legs, and/or face. It is most common in Caucasian women who have mental illness or emotional stress. Symptoms typically include the formation of multiple, small, purple bruises that may be associated with burning, redness and swelling. Most affected people report that the bruising occurs either spontaneously, or some time after trauma or surgery at other sites of the body. The cause of GDS is poorly understood. Management typically involves psychiatric treatment.[1][2]
Last updated: 1/27/2016

How many people have Gardner-Diamond syndrome?

Gardner-Diamond syndrome (GDS) is an extremely rare disorder.[3] An article published in 2015 noted that about 200 cases worldwide have been reported in the literature since GDS was first described in the 1950s.[4] Most cases reported have occurred in women ages 19-72, and mainly in women younger than age 30. Cases in men and in children have also been reported.[3]
Last updated: 1/27/2016

What is the long-term outlook for people with Gardner-Diamond syndrome?

The overall outlook (prognosis) for people with Gardner-Diamond syndrome (GDS) is good. However, relapses and remissions are common and may last for several years.[4] Remissions may be long-lasting.[3] Relief of acute stress and psychological factors is crucial in longer remissions. Chronological recurrence around the anniversary mark of major life events is common.[4]

In some cases, symptoms of GDS may persist and even worsen.The onset of new lesions is most probable after physical trauma or stress.[3]
Last updated: 1/27/2016

We hope this information is helpful. We strongly recommend you discuss this information with your doctor. If you still have questions, please contact us.

Warm regards,
GARD Information Specialist

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  1. Benjamin P Geisler, Bruce J Dezube. Psychogenic purpura (Gardner-Diamond syndrome). UpToDate. Waltham, MA: UpToDate; December, 2015;
  2. David J. Kuter. Autoerythrocyte Sensitization. Merck Manual. September, 2014; http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/hematology-and-oncology/bleeding-due-to-abnormal-blood-vessels/autoerythrocyte-sensitization.
  3. OL Ivanov, AN Lvov, AV Michenko, J Künzel, P Mayser, U Gieler. Autoerythrocyte sensitization syndrome (Gardner–Diamond syndrome): review of the literature. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology. 2009; 23(5):499-504. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19192020.
  4. Jafferany M, Bhattacharya G. Psychogenic Purpura (Gardner-Diamond Syndrome). Prim Care Companion CNS Disord. January 22, 2015; 17(1):