A case of acquired haemophilia A after combined cetuximab and radiotherapy for hypopharyngeal cancer

Abstract

Acquired hemophilia A is a bleeding disorder characterized by the development of autoantibodies to coagulation factor Ⅷ. Herein, we report a case of acquired hemophilia A in an 81-year-old man that developed after he was treated for hypopharyngeal cancer with combined cetuximab and radiation therapy in 20XX−5. Although there was no recurrence or metastasis of the cancer, the patient experienced bleeding of the buccal mucosa and was diagnosed with acquired hemophilia in 20XX, for which he is currently undergoing treatment.
Acquired hemophilia is thought to be caused by autoimmune disorders, antihypertensive agents, antibiotics such as penicillin-based drugs, skin diseases such as pemphigus, and malignant tumors. Tumors are present in 17％ of patients with acquired hemophilia. Patients who develop acquired hemophilia after treatment for malignancy require more careful follow-up in view of the possibility of recurrence and/or metastasis of cancer. This information should be noted by both physicians and otolaryngologists.