Hypercalcemia in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: An Unusual Presentation

Abstract

AbstractHypercalcemia in CML is an unusual paraneoplastic syndrome and is associated with worse prognosis and reduced survival. It usually seen in blast crisis or accelerated phase but can also indicate bony infiltration by cancer cells. Multiple mechanisms can be involved in a patient. We present a case of hypercalcemia in CML in chronic phase without bony infiltration or increased parathormone levels. Increased calcium levels may also be first indication of tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance. Patient was managed symptomatically with subsequent change of the drug for managing CML. He is currently stable at six months follow-up. Therefore, careful evaluation of the cause of hypercalcemia is necessary for appropriate management.