Drug induced chronic acquired pure red cell aplasia in adolescent boy.

ABSTRACT

Acquired Pure red cell Aplasia (PRCA) is a disorder seen rarely in children and adolescents. Drugs like sodium valproate and carbamazepine have emerged as an important cause of acquired PRCA, when used for a long duration. Apart from the neurological side-effects, haematological side-effects in form of aplastic anemia and agranulocytosis are well-documented in carbamazepine therapy. The haematologic side-effects of carbamazepine, although not common, should nevertheless be borne in mind due to the serious, prolonged and sometimes even fatal consequences. Carbamazepine is a commonly prescribed drug in today’s scenario and it is important to be aware about its common and uncommon side-effects. We report a case of Carbamazepine induced pure red cell aplasia in an adolescent boy. Since, this drug induced PRCA is reversible if recognised early, it is worthwhile to be aware of this complication to prevent permanent morbidity due to generalised bone marrow hypoplasia.