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Published on: May 15, 2019
Stroke in a multiple myeloma patient treated with thalidomide
Xavier Ortín1, Marta Rodríguez-Luaces, Marisa Calabuig
1Servicio de Hematología, Hospital de Tortosa Verge de la Cinta, Tortosa, Spain.
Summary
Thalidomide, used for multiple myeloma (MM), can cause serious side effects like thrombosis. This case highlights a rare instance of nonfatal arterial stroke in an MM patient treated with thalidomide.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Thalidomide exhibits antiangiogenic and immunomodulatory effects, making it a treatment option for relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (MM).
- Despite its efficacy, thalidomide is linked to significant side effects, notably deep vein thrombosis and peripheral neuropathy.
- Thrombosis incidence ranges from 2% to 23%, escalating when combined with chemotherapy, predominantly manifesting as venous thromboembolism.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of arterial stroke in a patient with relapsed multiple myeloma (MM) undergoing thalidomide treatment.
- To contribute to the limited literature on arterial thrombotic events associated with thalidomide therapy.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a patient with relapsed multiple myeloma (MM).
- Patient received thalidomide treatment.
- Clinical presentation and management of a nonfatal thrombotic stroke were documented.
Main Results:
- The patient experienced a nonfatal thrombotic stroke while on thalidomide therapy for relapsed MM.
- This event represents a rare occurrence of arterial occlusion linked to thalidomide use.
Conclusions:
- Arterial thrombotic events, though infrequent, are a potential risk associated with thalidomide treatment in multiple myeloma (MM) patients.
- Clinicians should remain vigilant for rare arterial occlusive events in patients receiving thalidomide, especially those with multiple myeloma (MM).
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