Severe thrombocytopenia in cirrhotic patients treated with Piperacillin-Tazobactam

Abstract

portal hypertension and bacterial infections are frequent in cirrhosis and their coexistence may render this population susceptible to severe drug-induced thrombocytopenia. We describe frequency, clinical characteristics and prognosis of Piperacillin/Tazobactan associated thrombocytopenia. 84 patients [Child 10±1, MELD 18±8; SIRS and ACLF in 28% and 24%] were included. Thrombocytopenia developed in 12 patients and was associated with a higher frequency of bleeding from multiple sites and platelet transfusion. Severe/persistent thrombocytopenia correlated with in-hospital mortality. In conclusion, development of thrombocytopenia is frequent in cirrhotic patients treated with Piperacillin/Tazobactan and this complication, especially in most severe forms, is associated with high morbidity and mortality.