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Epsilon aminocaproic acid reduces transfusion requirements in patients with thrombocytopenic hemorrhage
Author(s) -
Kalmadi Sujith,
Tiu Ramon,
Lowe Christopher,
Jin Tao,
Kalaycio Matt
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
cancer
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.052
H-Index - 304
eISSN - 1097-0142
pISSN - 0008-543X
DOI - 10.1002/cncr.21958
Subject(s) - medicine , aminocaproic acid , blood transfusion , surgery
BACKGROUND Epsilon aminocaproic acid (EACA) is an antifibrinolytic drug that has been used to control hemorrhage by stabilizing the thrombus. It has been used in thrombocytopenic patients largely on an empiric basis. METHODS Concerns regarding side effects have limited the use of this drug. The authors reviewed their experience with EACA at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation from 1997 to 2003. RESULTS Of 77 patients with thrombocytopenic hemorrhage, 51 (66%) patients achieved a complete response and 13 (17%) patients achieved a partial response, resulting in a decrease in platelet and red blood cell transfusions. Adverse effects were manageable in this set of patients with severe underlying disease. CONCLUSIONS Based on this experience, EACA may be a valuable adjunctive therapy in the treatment of patients with thrombocytopenic hemorrhage. Cancer 2006. © 2006 American Cancer Society.