Oxaliplatin-induced immune thrombocytopenia in a patient with pancreatic cancer

Abstract

Oxaliplatin-induced immune thrombocytopenia is a rare but potentially serious complication of chemotherapy. We present the case of a 55-year-old man with stage 4 pancreatic carcinoma who developed immune thrombocytopenia during the 18th cycle of folinic acid, fluorouracil, irinotecan, and oxaliplatin (FOLFIRINOX) chemotherapy, immediately after oxaliplatin infusion. Despite treatment with methylprednisolone and platelet infusion, the patient’s platelet count remained low. Subsequent plasmapheresis and continued steroid therapy resulted in a gradual improvement in platelet count and resolution of symptoms. This case highlights the importance of considering immune thrombocytopenia in patients receiving oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy, and the potential role of plasmapheresis in refractory cases. Further research is needed to elucidate the optimal management of this rare complication.