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Updated: Aug 7, 2026

Isolation and Characterization of Neutrophils with Anti-Tumor Properties
Published on: June 19, 2015
Pseudomonas bacteremia precipitated by ticlopidine-induced neutropenia
S M Geletko1, K M Melbourne, D J Mikolich
1College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Providence, USA.
Objective:
To report a case of ticlopidine-induced neutropenia resulting in Pseudomonas bacteremia.
Case Summary:
An 83-year-old white man developed febrile neutropenia 5 days after initiation of ticlopidine therapy. At presentation, the patient's white blood cell count was 1.1 x 10(9)/L with an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) of 0. Ticlopidine was discontinued and the patient was treated empirically with ceftazidime, gentamicin, and filgrastim. The patient's blood cultures were positive for Pseudomonas aeruginosa. By day 6 of antibiotic and fllgrastim therapy, he was clinically improved and the ANC was 17 040 x 10(6) cells/L. The filgrastim and intravenous antibiotics were discontinued and oral ciprofloxacin was started.
Conclusions:
Ticlopidine-induced neutropenia can occur suddenly and may result in a serious infection, such as bacteremia.
Insights
Ticlopidine can cause sudden neutropenia, a dangerous drop in white blood cells. This case highlights the risk of severe Pseudomonas bacteremia in patients with ticlopidine-induced neutropenia.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Pharmacology
Background:
- Ticlopidine is an antiplatelet medication.
- Neutropenia is a condition characterized by a low count of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell.
Observation:
- An 83-year-old male developed febrile neutropenia (white blood cell count 1.1 x 10(9)/L, absolute neutrophil count 0) 5 days after starting ticlopidine.
- Blood cultures confirmed Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteremia.
Findings:
- Ticlopidine was discontinued, and the patient received ceftazidime, gentamicin, and filgrastim.
- The patient improved clinically with resolution of neutropenia (ANC 17,040 x 10(6) cells/L) after 6 days of treatment.
Implications:
- Ticlopidine-induced neutropenia can manifest abruptly and lead to severe infections like bacteremia.
- Prompt recognition and management, including discontinuation of the offending drug and supportive care, are crucial.
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