| Abstract | We report our experience with 8 patients with Felty's syndrome who were treated with D-penicillamine for a mean of one year. Six of the 8 patients experienced improvement in their neutropenia. Cutaneous ulcers healed in 4 of 6, while recurrent infections cleared in 3 of 5 patients. The drug was withdrawn in 6 patients--lack of response in one, thrombocytopenia in one, urticaria in one, rash in one, and granulocytopenia in 2. One of the latter 2 patients developed pancytopenia and died. Although D-penicillamine is effective in treatment of Felty's syndrome, its side effects can be serious and potentially lethal. Its use should be limited to patients who have failed other treatments. |
| Authors | S Lakhanpal, H S Luthra |
| Journal | The Journal of rheumatology
(J Rheumatol)
Vol. 12
Issue 4
Pg. 703-6
(Aug 1985)
ISSN: 0315-162X CANADA |
| PMID | 4057191
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)
|
| Chemical References |
- Hemoglobins
- Penicillamine
|
| Topics |
- Aged
- Felty's Syndrome
(blood, drug therapy)
- Female
- Granulocytes
(drug effects)
- Hemoglobins
(analysis)
- Humans
- Leukocyte Count
(drug effects)
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Neutrophils
(drug effects)
- Penicillamine
(adverse effects, therapeutic use)
|
