Front-line immunosuppressive treatment of acquired aplastic anemia

Bone Marrow Transplant. 2013 Feb;48(2):174-7. doi: 10.1038/bmt.2012.222. Epub 2012 Nov 19.

Abstract

In this article, front-line immunosuppressive therapy (IST) for acquired plastic anemia (AA) is illustrated and discussed. Also second-line and salvage options are briefly illustrated. First-line IST should consist of horse anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG) and CsA that has been shown to result in response rates between 60 and 80%. CsA should be given for 12 months until transfusion independence is achieved and then tapered very slowly in the presence of a CR. Patients with a partial response are usually continued on CsA. Tight monitoring of the blood count during CsA tapering is necessary to identify early loss of response. G-CSF 5 μg/kg/day s.c. in the first 30 days has been shown to reduce infections and hospitalization and to identify early responders, as those who achieve neutrophils count of0.5 × 10(9)/L by day +30. This schedule is recommended in the first month of therapy. Afterward, G-CSF can be considered in neutropenic febrile episodes. Patients not achieving transfusion independence after a first course of IST may be considered for second-line IST, or for an allogeneic hematopoietic SCT depending on patient age, ongoing infection, neutrophil count and transfusion requirements. Third-line IST is rarely given, but some options are discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anemia, Aplastic / blood
  • Anemia, Aplastic / drug therapy*
  • Anemia, Aplastic / therapy
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Immunosuppressive Agents