We present here a case of near fatal sepsis and agranulocytosis. The pyrazolone class of analgesics, of which dipyrone is a derivative, was introduced in the late 19th century and had a meteoric rise in use until an associated rise in fatal agranulocytosis was discovered. Dipyrone is thought to induce agranulocytosis by inducing an antibody response. With the widespread use of alternative treatments, it is important for physicians to inquire as to the use of unprescribed drugs.
Several resources are available to aid with the identification of foreign drugs.
The use of unconventional medical therapy is widespread in the United States. A recently conducted study revealed that up to one third of all respondents had used some form of unconventional therapy during the past year. The most common ailments for which patients sought alternative therapy included backache, anxiety, headache, chronic pain, and cancer. Thus, it is especially important for physicians faced with an unusual medical condition to inquire fully into alternative forms of therapy that a patient may be using. We report here a case of near fatal sepsis and agranulocytosis due to dipyrone.