[Fatal thrombocytopenia triggered by quinidine]

A woman aged 60 years receiving anticoagulation treatment on account of artificial mitral and aortic valve prostheses developed severe thrombocytopenia three weeks after the commencement of quinidine treatment. The results of investigations suggested severe thrombocytopenia precipitated by quinidine. The severe thrombocytopenia persisted despite intensive treatment and the condition ended fatally on account of cerebral haemorrhage. The combination of quinidine and oral anticoagulation treatment is not unusual and it is important to bear in mind that both of these preparations may cause increased haemorrhagic tendencies.