Successful Management of Hydroxyurea-induced Leg Ulcers in Essential Thrombocythemia: Report of 3 Cases

Abstract

Essential thrombocythemia is one of the myeloproliferative neoplasms with a plethora of thrombohemorrhagic complications. Hydroxyurea has been proven to be an effective treatment for this condition. However, it is not without side effects. We herein report 3 patients with essential thrombocythemia treated with hydroxyurea who developed refractory leg ulcers, and we outline their successful management. We also review the literature to shed light on the mechanism of this toxicity. Awareness of this important treatment complication is important to avoid the pitfall of futile invasive interventions.

Keywords

• hydroxyurea
• essential thrombocythemia
• leg ulcers
• interferon