Oxaliplatin-induced acute thrombocytopenia: a case report and review of the literature

Intern Med. 2013;52(5):611-5. doi: 10.2169/internalmedicine.52.8933. Epub 2013 Mar 1.

Abstract

We herein report the case of a 77-year-old woman who developed acute thrombocytopenia during the 23rd cycle of modified FOLFOX therapy. She developed a hypersensitivity reaction with nasal bleeding. The chemotherapy infusion was immediately discontinued. The patient's symptoms resolved with discontinuation of chemotherapy and the administration of supportive therapy. A complete blood count showed severe thrombocytopenia, and oxaliplatin-induced thrombocytopenia was diagnosed. The patient was admitted to the hospital, and the thrombocytopenia was corrected with a platelet transfusion followed by prednisolone. She was discharged after one week without requiring additional platelet transfusions. With the widespread use of oxaliplatin, the risk of oxaliplatin-induced acute thrombocytopenia should be considered an acute onset hematological emergency.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Aged
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Organoplatinum Compounds / adverse effects*
  • Oxaliplatin
  • Thrombocytopenia / chemically induced*
  • Thrombocytopenia / diagnosis*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Organoplatinum Compounds
  • Oxaliplatin