Long-lasting thrombocytopenia after transient pancytopenia induced by short-term concomitant radiotherapy and temozolomide

Abstract

We describe long-lasting and incompletely resolved thrombocytopenia after transient profound pancytopenia in a 62-year-old female patient with glioblastoma after short-term radiotherapy with temozolomide. Pancytopenia was present for more than 4 weeks and thrombocytopenia for more than 6 months, without platelet recovery to normal levels. Learning Points • Some patients may experience severe haematological manifestations after even short-term radiotherapy with temozolomide. • In everyday practice, clinical models precisely predicting the haematological toxicity of concomitant treatment with temozolomide and radiotherapy is necessary, especially in countries where genetic tests are not available. • Incomplete recovery of the cells of a particular bloodline over a long period may necessitate permanent discontinuation of chemotherapy or radiotherapy.