Leukocytosis Associated With Medroxyprogesterone in Gender-Affirming and Fertility Treatments
Leukocytosis, defined as an elevated white blood cell (WBC) count, can arise from physiological, infectious, neoplastic, or medication-related causes. While leukocytosis has been well-documented in conditions such as infections and malignancies, drug-induced leukocytosis is relatively rare, particularly in individuals undergoing gender transition therapies. Medroxyprogesterone, a progestin used in both fertility treatments and gender-affirming care, has been associated with hematologic changes, though its role in sustained leukocytosis remains underexplored. This case suggests a possible link between medroxyprogesterone and leukocytosis in gender-affirming therapy. It emphasizes the importance of thoroughly reviewing medication history to avoid unnecessary testing and procedures while highlighting the need for further research into the mechanism of progestin-induced hematologic changes.
Authors
- David I. Chu (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7972-4671)
- A. Konstantinidis (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0445-2229)
- Salman Syed
- Garry G Lachhar
- Fatimah Spall
Institutions
- Northwell Health (US)
- John T. Mather Memorial Hospital (US)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Cureus
- Published
- 2025-02-07
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.78681
- Primary Topic
- Reproductive System and Pregnancy
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00