Assessment of linezolid-induced thrombocytopenia in older patients: reflections from a palliative care unit

Authors : Sencer Ganidağlı, Ercüment Öztürk, Zeynel Abidin Öztürk

Pages : 486-495

Doi:10.17826/cumj.1638509

View : 74 | Download : 155

Publication Date : 2025-06-30

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Purpose: Linezolid (LZD) is an antibiotic which is effective against resistant gram-positive bacteria. The aim of this study was to investigate the characteristics and risk factors of linezolid-induced thrombocytopenia (LIT). Materials and Methods: This monocentric and retrospective study comprised 93 older patients treated with LZD for a minimum of seven days in a palliative care unit. Thrombocytopenia was defined as a decrease in platelet count below 150x103/mm3 or a ≥ 50% decrease. Complete blood count (CBC) and biochemical analyses were performed on the first, third, seventh, last day of treatment and after treatment. Results: The mean age of the patients was 73.7 years (±7.9 years). Thrombocytopenia was observed in 48 patients. The mean age, median duration of hospitalisation and LZD treatment were higher, and baseline serum albumin concentration and calcium level were lower in patients with LIT. In the groups aged ≥75 years, with albumin levels 14 days, serum baseline albumin <25g/L and platelet count <200x103/mm3 as risk factors for LIT. Conclusion: Older patients receiving LZD treatment in a palliative care unit with risk factors should be closely monitored hematological. CBC should be performed once in the first week, and 14th day of treatment to prevent thrombocytopenic complications.
Keywords : Linezolid, trombositopeni, yaşlı hasta, palyatif bakım

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