Quinine-induced severe thrombocytopenia: the importance of taking a detailed drug history

BMJ Case Rep. 2013 Oct 3:2013:bcr2013200631. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2013-200631.

Abstract

Drugs can lead to severe life-threatening thrombocytopenia. The mechanisms of drug-induced thrombocytopenia are increased destruction by immune-mediated platelet destruction or decreased platelet production by bone marrow suppression. Quinine is a drug used for the treatment of malaria and nocturnal leg cramps and is also an important ingredient in some herbal preparations. Quinine can very rarely cause thrombocytopenia by immune-mediated platelet destruction. In a patient with thrombocytopenia, a detailed history of all the medications including over-the-counter medications and herbal preparations is very important.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Glucocorticoids / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Medical History Taking
  • Muscle Cramp / drug therapy
  • Muscle Relaxants, Central / adverse effects*
  • Prednisolone / therapeutic use
  • Quinine / adverse effects*
  • Thrombocytopenia / chemically induced*
  • Thrombocytopenia / diagnosis
  • Thrombocytopenia / drug therapy

Substances

  • Glucocorticoids
  • Muscle Relaxants, Central
  • Prednisolone
  • Quinine