CAPTOPRIL-ASSOCIATED AGRANULOCYTOSIS : A REPORT OF 3 CASES

Three cases of captopril-associated neutropenia are described, which illustrate the clinical presentation, variable predisposing factors and outcome of this rare but potentially serious adverse event. Particular risk factors of renal failure and collagen vascular disease were present in only 1 patient, while a second patient had reversible mild renal impairment. The doses of captopril used ranged from 25 mg to 50 mg 3 times a day. Two patients recovered after withdrawal of the drug but the third died of septicaemia. Captopril-associated agranulocytosis is reviewed.