Typhlitis complicating induction therapy in adult acute myeloid leukemia.

Abstract

In a retrospective analysis of 161 consecutive adult patients with de novo acute myeloid leukemia undergoing induction therapy, including cytarabine, etoposide and anthracyclines, seven patients (4.3%) developed typhlitis. All presented severe neutropenia, fever, abdominal pain and tenderness within 16 days from starting chemotherapy (median 11 days; range 5-16). Three patients underwent surgery and survived, four were treated only with supportive therapy: two recovered and two died. In our experience early recognition of typhlitis and rapid recovery of the neutrophils are the most important determinants of the results of surgical and/or medical approaches. The management of typhlitis, a life-threatening condition, is controversial and depends on many factors characterizing each patient, which must be evaluated in collaboration between the surgeon and the hematologist.

• Authors: D Pastore, G Specchia, G Mele, M T Montagna, A Margari, P Carluccio, M Nacchiero, V Liso
• Journal: Leukemia & lymphoma (Leuk Lymphoma) Vol. 43 Issue 4 Pg. 911-4 (Apr 2002) ISSN: 1042-8194 [Print] United States
• PMID: 12153186 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Chemical References

• Antineoplastic Agents

Topics

• Adolescent
• Adult
• Antineoplastic Agents (adverse effects)
• Cecal Diseases (etiology, therapy)
• Enterocolitis (etiology, therapy)
• Female
• Humans
• Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute (drug therapy)
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Necrosis
• Prognosis
• Retrospective Studies