Status of plasmapheresis and cyclosporin a in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus
Graf, N.; Bambauer, R.; Jost, W.; Schäfer, M.
Monatsschrift Kinderheilkunde Organ der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Kinderheilkunde 138(7): 395-398
1990
ISSN/ISBN: 0026-9298 PMID: 2398909 Document Number: 362082
We report the history of 2 teenagers suffering from systemic lupus erythematosus for more than 5 years. Both of them were treated with total plasma exchange (TPE) and Ciclosporin A. They responded well to this therapy and achieved remissions. Especially the 2nd patient showed a dramatic clinical improvement after a relapse caused by sun exposure. Both treatment modalities are discussed and the following conclusions are drawn: TPE is an important therapeutic element in treating patients with SLE, whereas Ciclosporin A is not recommended for therapy of first choice. Further prospective and controlled studies have to show, if there is a benefit of this therapy, especially in childhood.