Successful management of imatinib despite alopecia and nail necrosis

Ergene U., Ozbalci D.

Transfusion and Apheresis Science, vol.48, no.2, pp.271-272, 2013 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 48 Issue: 2
  • Publication Date: 2013
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.transci.2013.01.002
  • Journal Name: Transfusion and Apheresis Science
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.271-272
  • Keywords: Imatinib mesylate, CML, Alopecia, Paronychia inflammation, Side effects
  • Manisa Celal Bayar University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Imatinib mesylate selectively inhibits bcr/abl and other non-specific tyrosine kinases, such as c-kit and platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) receptor and successfully used to treat chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML). In most cases, the drug is well tolerated: however, side effects can be seen. Hair loss and paronychia inflammation were often reported with Imatinib, but total alopecia was rarely mentioned. We report a CML patient who was presented with alopecia and paronychia inflammation probably induced by imatinib therapy. We have successfully treated our patient by cessation and then re-applying therapy with lower doses after improvement of lesions and have not found a similar report in literature. © 2013 Elsevier Ltd.