Extreme lymphoplasmacytosis and hepatic failure associated with sulfasalazine hypersensitivity reaction and a concurrent EBV infection--case report and review of the literature

Ann Hematol. 2004 Apr;83(4):242-6. doi: 10.1007/s00277-003-0746-6. Epub 2003 Sep 12.

Abstract

We present an unusual case of a patient with extreme lymphoplasmacytosis and hepatic failure in association with a reaction to sulfasalazine and a concurrent Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. Sulfa drugs can cause a wide range of allergic and hypersensitivity reactions and occasionally can lead to a fulminant illness. In the case under discussion the patient had hepatotoxicity, skin rash, fever, and peripheral blood atypical lymphocytosis. Initial impressions suggested the possibility of a malignant lymphoproliferative disorder. Flow cytometry of peripheral blood and a bone marrow biopsy provided clear evidence for a reactive, polyclonal process as opposed to a malignant disorder. Cessation of the offending drug and administration of steroids led to dramatic improvement. This case illustrates that drug hypersensitivity reactions can be manifested by an extreme lymphocytoid leukemoid reaction.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Drug Hypersensitivity / complications
  • Drug Hypersensitivity / etiology*
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / blood
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / complications*
  • Humans
  • Leukocyte Count
  • Liver Failure / blood
  • Liver Failure / chemically induced
  • Liver Failure / etiology*
  • Liver Failure / virology
  • Lymphocytosis / blood
  • Lymphocytosis / chemically induced
  • Lymphocytosis / drug therapy
  • Lymphocytosis / etiology*
  • Lymphocytosis / virology
  • Male
  • Methylprednisolone / administration & dosage
  • Plasma Cells / pathology*
  • Sulfasalazine / adverse effects*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Sulfasalazine
  • Methylprednisolone