Chronic Eosinophilic Leukemia Presenting as Cardiac Failure

Abstract

Chronic eosinophilic leukemia (CEL) is a rare chronic myeloproliferative disorder characterized by sustained eosinophilia. Although the incidence of CEL is uncertain, it can be clinically devastating as it has a propensity to affect several important organ systems. This is of particular significance in Sub-Saharan Africa where helminthic infections are a more prevalent cause of eosinophilia. To the best of our knowledge, we present the first reported case of CEL complicated by cardiac disease in a Ghanaian. He presented with a history of orthopnoea and dyspnoea on exertion, and examination revealed a pansystolic murmur over the mitral region and moderate splenomegaly. Good symptomatic control was achieved using hydroxyurea after which haematologic and cytogenetic remission was achieved after 12 weeks on a tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Physicians working in low resource environments should exclude clonality in patients presenting with eosinophilia and end-organ damage.

Eosinophilic Myocarditis Resulting in Ventricular Tachycardia Storm

“…Treating the etiology of EM is key; these etiologies are classified into reactive, clonal, or idiopathic causes [ 1 , 6 ]. Reactive causes of EM, such as allergies, infections, or drug reactions should be assessed immediately [ 2 ].…”