Azacitidine-induced myopericarditis in acute myeloid leukemia

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Cardiology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Hypomethylating agents (HMAs) are standard treatments for myelodysplastic syndromes.
• Bone marrow suppression is a known side effect of HMAs.
• Cardiac complications associated with HMAs are considered rare.

Observation:

• A patient diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia received chemotherapy.
• The patient developed myopericarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle and surrounding membrane.
• This cardiac event occurred subsequent to treatment with azacitidine, a common HMA.

Findings:

• Azacitidine, used for acute myeloid leukemia, was linked to the development of myopericarditis.
• This case suggests a potential, albeit rare, cardiac side effect of azacitidine therapy.
• The patient's history and medication review were crucial for diagnosis.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider cardiac side effects, including myopericarditis, in patients receiving azacitidine.
• Thorough patient history and medication review are essential for diagnosing unexplained myopericarditis.
• Further investigation into the cardiotoxicity of HMAs may be warranted.