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Methotrexate-Induced Pancytopenia and Mucositis Caused by Medication Error
Maame-Boatemaa Amissah-Arthur1, Winifred Baah2
1University of Ghana Medical School, Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Accra, Ghana.
Abstract:
The use of methotrexate in routine clinical practice is becoming more common among specialties such as rheumatology, dermatology, oncology and obstetrics. General clinicians are increasingly encountering patients on this drug. Though it has a high safety profile, there is a recognised risk of acute toxicity or long-term complications associated with its use, which can be worsened by several factors such as advanced age, moderate to severe renal impairment, low folate level and/or inadequate folate supplementation, hypoalbuminaemia, polypharmacy causing drug-drug interactions and wrongful administration. We present a case of a 45-year old woman with rheumatoid arthritis who presented with acute pancytopaenia and mucositis due to methotrexate toxicity. We highlight its peculiar dosing regimen to minimise prescribing errors.
Funding:
None.
Insights
Methotrexate toxicity can cause severe side effects like pancytopenia and mucositis, even with a good safety profile. Careful dosing and monitoring are crucial for patients, especially those with risk factors like kidney impairment.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Rheumatology
- Oncology
Background:
- Methotrexate is increasingly used across rheumatology, dermatology, oncology, and obstetrics.
- General clinicians frequently manage patients prescribed methotrexate.
Observation:
- A 45-year-old woman with rheumatoid arthritis developed acute pancytopenia and mucositis.
- This presentation was attributed to methotrexate toxicity.
Findings:
- Methotrexate toxicity risk is influenced by factors including age, renal function, folate status, albumin levels, and drug interactions.
- The case highlights the potential for severe adverse events despite methotrexate's generally favorable safety profile.
Implications:
- Accurate dosing regimens are essential to minimize prescribing errors and prevent methotrexate toxicity.
- Awareness of risk factors and potential complications is vital for clinicians managing methotrexate therapy.
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