Recognition and management of methemoglobinemia and hemolysis in a G6PD-deficient patient on experimental anticancer drug Triapine

Am J Hematol. 2006 Mar;81(3):210-1. doi: 10.1002/ajh.20547.

Abstract

We report occurrence of severe methemoglobinemia in a patient on novel experimental anti-cancer drug, Triapine. Treatment with methylene blue led to massive hemolysis due to concomitant G6PD deficiency. We recommend that G6PD screening be done in high-risk populations prior to commencement of Triapine therapy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / administration & dosage
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Carcinoma, Renal Cell / complications*
  • Carcinoma, Renal Cell / drug therapy
  • Glucosephosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency / complications*
  • Hemolysis / drug effects*
  • Humans
  • Methemoglobinemia / chemically induced*
  • Middle Aged
  • Pyridines / administration & dosage
  • Pyridines / adverse effects*
  • Thiosemicarbazones / administration & dosage
  • Thiosemicarbazones / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Pyridines
  • Thiosemicarbazones
  • 3-aminopyridine-2-carboxaldehyde thiosemicarbazone