Hyperleukocytosis in a Patient With Chronic Myeloid Leukemia and HIV: A Case Report

The coexistence of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) presents a unique clinical challenge due to potential drug interactions and compounded side effects. This case report discusses a 55-year-old male with HIV and poorly managed CML, who presented with severe hyperleukocytosis. Potential leukostasis was managed using leukapheresis, hydroxyurea, and continued antiretroviral therapy before initiating dasatinib (a tyrosine kinase inhibitor), given its therapeutic effect on CML and potential properties to target HIV infection. This approach underscores the importance of rapid intervention, cytoreduction, and careful selection of therapy to minimize complications. Multidisciplinary coordination allowed for successful management, balancing leukemia and HIV treatment needs. This case emphasizes the complexity of CML-HIV co-treatment and the importance of tailored therapy, highlighting the need for further research on dual therapy impacts to improve outcomes and quality of life in co-infected patients.