Clopidogrel-induced systemic inflammatory response syndrome

Mayo Clin Proc. 2003 May;78(5):618-20. doi: 10.4065/78.5.618.

Abstract

Clopidogrel bisulfate, a widely used inhibitor of platelet aggregation, is considered at least as safe as aspirin. We describe a patient who developed a systemic inflammatory response syndrome consisting of high fever, tachycardia, cellulitis-like rash, impaired liver function, and mild leukopenia after receiving clopidogrel before coronary angiography and stent implantation. The reaction resolved promptly after withdrawal of the drug and recurred shortly after a rechallenge dose was administered, thus making the diagnosis of a clopidogrel-induced reaction highly probable. Recognition of this clopidogrel-induced syndrome is extremely important, both for rapid discontinuation of the offending drug and for avoidance of unnecessary drug therapy or invasive procedures.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Clopidogrel
  • Coronary Angiography / methods
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors / administration & dosage
  • Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors / adverse effects*
  • Stents
  • Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome / blood
  • Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome / chemically induced*
  • Ticlopidine / administration & dosage
  • Ticlopidine / adverse effects*
  • Ticlopidine / analogs & derivatives

Substances

  • Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors
  • Clopidogrel
  • Ticlopidine