BACKGROUND:Thionamide induced agranulocytosis is associated with the presence of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) in some patients. This poses a particular challenge when it occurs during pregnancy.
AIMS:To report a case of a 31-year-old woman with Graves' disease who presented at 11 weeks gestation with propylthiouracil induced agranulocytosis.
METHODS:After cessation of propylthiouracil the patient developed recurrent thyrotoxicosis, and underwent an elective subtotal thyroidectomy at 23 weeks gestation.
RESULTS:The patient required postoperative thyroxine replacement therapy. Subsequent pregnancy was uneventful and she delivered a healthy baby boy at 41 weeks gestation. As part of our routine work up for agranulocytosis we measured C-ANCA levels, which were significantly elevated.
CONCLUSION:This case highlights the association of propylthiouracil induced ANCA positivity and agranulocytosis. Second trimester subtotal thyroidectomy was safe and effective in treating this pregnant patient's thyrotoxicosis.