Tyrosine kinase inhibitor induced isolated pericardial effusion

Long-term therapy with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) has resulted in improved outcomes for patients suffering from Bcr-Abl fusion protein-harboring leukemias. As a result, a growing population of patients on TKI therapy present to their primary care providers. In this case, we report on the case of a 62-year-old male who presented with a symptomatic pericardial effusion. After pericardiocentesis, malignancy and infectious etiologies were excluded. The pericardial effusion was attributed to his TKI, with a transition of this medication to a different TKI. A repeat evaluation 1 month following the withdrawal of the offending agent showed no recurrence of his pericardial effusion on echocardiogram. In this report, we will highlight a rare but important side effect of TKI therapy before discussing its purported mechanisms and differing incidence rates. Early recognition of serosal inflammation related to long-term TKI therapy by primary care providers is important in preventing patient morbidity and mortality.