Platin salts-induced hemolytic anemia

Anemia is a common side effect of cisplatin, especially after repeated infusions. The primary mechanisms is a myelosuppression caused by cisplatin's interference with iron metabolism, resulting in a lower count of red cell precursors. Some authors report a hemolytic anemia similar to penicillin-induced anemia, in which hemolysis is caused by an antiglobulin antibody directed against red cell membrane-bound cisplatin. The authors report two cases of cisplatin-induced anemia and suggest that the immune-complex hypothesis is responsible for hemolysis. The first case of carboplatin-induced hemolysis is also reported. Mechanisms of hemolysis and clinical practice are discussed.