A rare cause of neutropenic enterocolitis: Propylthiouracil-induced agranulocytosis

Abstract

Introduction: Neutropenic enterocolitis is a life-threatening gastrointestinal complication of neutropenia that is rarely seen in adults. Neutropenic enterocolitis is more common in oncology patients, especially in those with leukemia. Antithyroid drugs are widely used to treat hyperthyroidism, but they can rarely cause agranulocytosis. Although the pathophysiology is not well understood, high clinical suspicion and immediate and appropriate treatment responses are essential to reduce the mortality rate of neutropenic enterocolitis. Case presentation: We present a case of a 57-year-old male patient who developed neutropenic enterocolitis as a result of agranulocytosis caused by the use of propylthiouracil. He had history of hyperthyroidism and was on propylthiouracil. He presented to the emergency department with abdominal pain but eventually died due to rapid deterioration of sepsis and multiple organ failure despite medical and surgical treatment. Discussion: Thioamides can cause agranulocytosis which can result in serious complication including neutropenic enterocolitis. Complete blood count must be monitored in patients receiving thioamides, and these patients should be educated on symptoms of agranulocytosis. Conclusion: Since patients with neutropenic enterocolitis are often evaluated first by emergency physicians, emergency physicians must be vigilant for neutropenic enterocolitis in patients with neutropenia and abdominal pain.