Remission of autoimmune hemolytic anemia associated with chronic lymphocytic leukemia following splenic irradiation
Paule, B.; Brion, N.; Brion, G.
Nouvelle Revue Francaise d'Hematologie 31(6): 413-415
1989
ISSN/ISBN: 0029-4810 PMID: 2616270 Document Number: 329418
A 56-year old woman with chronic lymphocytic leukemia associated with corticosteroid-resistant autoimmune hemolytic anemia was successfully treated with splenic irradiation. Cobalt 60 in the dose of 8 Gy was delivered to the spleen, considered sufficient for therapy of B lymphocyte CALLA-phenotype. There has been no recurrence of autoimmune hemolytic anemia over a follow-up period of 28 months. The mechanism of action of splenic irradiation is discussed. This treatment might offer a simple and effective alternative to splenectomy in patients with steroid-resistant hemolytic anemia when surgical operation is contraindicated or refused.