Tacrolimus intoxication resolved by gastrointestinal bleeding: case report

Transplant Proc. 2007 Mar;39(2):522-5. doi: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2006.12.022.

Abstract

Tacrolimus is a potent immunosuppressive agent widely used in renal and liver transplantations. Its potential side effects due to overdosing are variable. Most commonly toxic tacrolimus blood levels affect the central and peripheral nervous systems. Once absorbed, tacrolimus binds to plasma proteins and accumulates within erythrocytes. Current treatment strategies to overcome acute intoxications focus on the induction of hepatic cytochrome P450 enzymes to accelerate tacrolimus degradation. We report the case of a 69-year-old renal transplant recipient presenting with acute liver failure, septic shock, and tacrolimus intoxication. The intoxication was resolved by massive gastrointestinal bleeding and subsequent transfusion of packed erythrocytes. We concluded that exchange blood transfusions offer an alternative therapeutic approach for patients with severe liver function impairment and tacrolimus intoxication.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Diabetes Mellitus / diagnosis
  • Female
  • Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / diagnosis*
  • Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / therapy
  • Hemofiltration
  • Hemoglobins / metabolism
  • Hemorrhoids / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / blood
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / toxicity
  • Kidney Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Polycystic Kidney, Autosomal Dominant / surgery
  • Polycystic Kidney, Autosomal Dominant / therapy
  • Postoperative Complications / diagnosis
  • Renal Dialysis
  • Shock, Septic / etiology
  • Tacrolimus / blood
  • Tacrolimus / toxicity*

Substances

  • Hemoglobins
  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Tacrolimus