Anaemia associated with Tacrolimus: A case report and literature review

Tacrolimus (FK506), an immunosuppressant, is a popular option for combination drug treatment of nephrotic syndrome. It is well-tolerated by most patients and rarely induces anaemia. We report a case of anaemia in a girl with immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy that occurred after FK506 treatment.

A 12-year-old girl received a combination treatment of FK506 and hormones. During the therapy, the red blood cells (RBCs), haemoglobin (HGB) and red blood cell-specific volume (HCT) continued to decrease following an increase in the whole blood concentration of FK506. Moderate anaemia was found in the patient. The levels of RBC, HGB and HCT gradually improved after discontinuation of the FK506 and symptomatic treatment.

The mechanism by which FK506 induces anaemia remains unclear. The genetic polymorphisms of CYP3A5 or the chemical structure may have an effect in the onset of the disease. Thus, when a patient presents with a newly developed anaemic condition during FK506 treatment, after elimination of haematuria and any underlying disease, the possibility of the effect of the medication should be considered.