Recurrent arterial and venous thromboemboli as initial presentation of acute promyelocytic leukemia

J Clin Med Res. 2014 Oct;6(5):388-91. doi: 10.14740/jocmr1864w. Epub 2014 Jul 28.

Abstract

We report a case of a 52-year-old Caucasian woman diagnosed with a synchronic arterial and venous thrombosis as an initial presentation of an acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). After the diagnosis, the patient was treated with all trans-retinoic acid and arsenic chemotherapy concomitant to systemic anticoagulation. This treatment regimen led to a complete remission and absence of relapse of the thrombosis or APL during the follow-up. To our knowledge, this presentation is the second case in the literature. We use this opportunity to emphasize the importance of performing a complete medical evaluation in cases of unusual thromboembolic events.

Keywords: Acute promyelocytic leukemia; All trans-retinoic acid and arsenic treatment; Arterial and venous thrombosis; Systemic anticoagulation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports