Probable Etoricoxib-Induced Severe Thrombocytopenia: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Hematology
• Clinical Toxicology

Background:

• Etoricoxib is a selective COX-2 inhibitor used for pain and inflammation.
• Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by abnormally low platelet counts.

Observation:

• A 32-year-old woman presented with a severe petechial rash after 7 days of etoricoxib therapy.
• Her platelet count was critically low at 3,000/mm3 upon admission.
• No other causes for thrombocytopenia were identified through diagnostic testing.

Findings:

• A probable causal link between etoricoxib use and severe thrombocytopenia was established using the Naranjo scale.
• Discontinuation of etoricoxib and treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin and corticosteroids resulted in rapid resolution of thrombocytopenia.

Implications:

• This case suggests that etoricoxib-induced thrombocytopenia may be a potential adverse drug reaction.
• Further studies are warranted to determine the true prevalence of this adverse event.
• Clinicians should consider etoricoxib as a potential cause of thrombocytopenia in patients presenting with relevant symptoms.