The American journal of the medical sciences
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Methotrexate (MTX) is an effective medication in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), other rheumatic diseases and various solid tumors. However, its side effects, including gastrointestinal discomfort, oral ulcers, and especially bone marrow suppression, could be fatal and require special attention, particularly in patients with renal failure. We present two hemodialysis patients with RA who presented with a complication of severe pancytopenia after treatment with MTX. ⋯ Compared with the patients who recovered, the deceased patients showed a lower level of leukocytes. Which dialysis method might be the best choice is unclear. The mode of renal replacement therapy can be chosen according to the actual situation.