Clopidogrel-associated severe isolated thrombocytopenia - A case report

Clopidogrel is a new oral antiplatelet agent with structure and mechanism of action similar to ticlopidine. It has replaced ticlopidine for many years due to significantly lower side effects and simpler dosing regimen. Cases of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) associated with clopidogrel were reported in recent years, but only 1 case of isolated profound thrombocytopenia associated with clopidogrel was ever reported. We present our experience with a case of severe isolated thrombocytopenia without evidence of TTP and HUS after clopidogrel administration. No drug possibly associated with thrombocytopenia was prescribed concomitantly. Platelet count recovered rapidly after discontinuation of clopidogrel and 8 units of platelet transfusion.