Chronic idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP:) development of acute non-lymphocytic leukemia subsequent to treatment with cyclophosphamide.

Abstract

Chronic idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is most often treated successfully with steroids and/or splenectomy. In those who fail to respond with the foregoing treatment, immunosuppressive drugs are sometimes added to the regimen. Cyclophosphamide has been reported heretofore to be effective with a minimum of side effects and complications. However, the use of alkylating agents and the induction of a second malignancy is now well recognized. This report describes three cases of refractory ITP treated with cyclophosphamide who subsequently developed an acute non-lymphocytic leukemia. Cyclophosphamide should be used with discretion in the treatment of chronic idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura which is a non-neoplastic disorder.

• Authors: J R Krause
• Journal: Medical and pediatric oncology (Med Pediatr Oncol) Vol. 10 Issue 1 Pg. 61-5 ( 1982) ISSN: 0098-1532 [Print] United States
• PMID: 7199614 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Comparative Study, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Steroids
• Cyclophosphamide

Topics

• Adult
• Chronic Disease
• Cyclophosphamide (adverse effects)
• Female
• Humans
• Leukemia (chemically induced)
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Prognosis
• Purpura, Thrombocytopenic (complications, drug therapy, surgery)
• Splenectomy
• Steroids (therapeutic use)