Recombinant activated factor VII for severe uterine bleeding after chemotherapy in a woman with acute myeloid leukemia.

ABSTRACT

Acute hemorrhage is sometimes a serious complication that may arise in patients with acute leukemia as a result of therapy-induced myelosuppression. In most cases, transfusion of platelets and red blood cells are used to manage this clinical entity. These therapeutic interventions are not always successful and a more direct approach to activating the coagulation system can be more effective and, in some instances, life saving. Recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa), which is used for management of hemophiliac patients with inhibitors, is a major alternative in such situations. Here we describe the use of rFVIIa in a 41-year-old patient with ongoing vaginal bleeding with acute myeloid leukemia. Our experience indicates that rFVIIa may be an effective salvage treatment in bleeding conditions related to leukemia.