Merkel cell carcinoma developing after antithymocyte globulin and cyclosporine therapy for aplastic anemia

Anticancer Drugs. 2003 Mar;14(3):251-3. doi: 10.1097/00001813-200303000-00010.

Abstract

We report a patient who developed Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) after treatment with antithymocyte globulin and cyclosporine for aplastic anemia. The clinical course was progressive and poor prognosis. Although MCC is relatively rare in second cancers arising after immunosuppressive therapy, patients should be closely monitored for the development of this complication as well as other second malignancies.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Anemia, Aplastic / drug therapy*
  • Antilymphocyte Serum / adverse effects*
  • Antilymphocyte Serum / therapeutic use
  • Carcinoma, Merkel Cell / chemically induced*
  • Cyclosporine / adverse effects*
  • Cyclosporine / therapeutic use
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / adverse effects*
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Antilymphocyte Serum
  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Cyclosporine