Rifampicin-induced thrombocytopenia in a patient with abdominal tuberculosis

Abstract

Most anti-tubercular drugs are relatively safe, but adverse reactions are not uncommon. Rifampicin is one of the most effective and widely used anti-tuberculosis drugs. Adverse effects due to rifampicin are not uncommon and the patients usually have skin rash, gastrointestinal disturbances, and hepatotoxicity. Rarely, the patients may also have allergic and autoimmune manifestations, which may include life-threatening thrombocytopenia. A high index of suspicion and careful evaluation for temporal association with the suspected drug are required to diagnose drug-induced immune thrombocytopenia. We present a case of rifampicin-induced thrombocytopenia; though relatively rare, it needs attention.