[Ticlopidine-induced neutropenia]

Ticlopidine (TCP) is a drug that inhibits platelet aggregation. Several studies have demonstrated its superiority over aspirin in preventing stroke and other thromboembolic diseases. However, neutropenia occurs in about 2% of TCP-treated patients, which therefore may advance to agranulocytosis, sepsis and death. They should be carefully followed with blood counts. We report 2 patients hospitalized with severe neutropenia while on TCP, despite having had regular blood counts. Their complications underline the need for patient selection and meticulous follow-up when ticlopidine is prescribed.