Immune hemolytic anemia and renal failure associated with rifampicin-dependent antibodies with anti-I specificity.
A 50-year-old woman with primary biliary cirrhosis developed immune hemolytic anemia and renal failure while receiving rifampicin for the treatment of refractory pruritus. Serological studies revealed the presence of rifampicin-dependent antibodies of the IgM class that, when tested against a wide panel of erythrocytes, had anti-I specificity. Subsequently, rifampicin was withdrawn and prednisone treatment instituted, this resulting in a rapid resolution of the hemolysis, whereas hemodialysis was required for recovery of the renal function. A role is suggested for the anti-I specificity of the antibodies in the development of renal failure associated with rifampicin therapy.
Pereira
A
A
Department of Hemotherapy and Hemostasis, Hospital Clínico y Provincial, Barcelona, Spain.
Sanz
C
C
Cervantes
F
F
Castillo
R
R
D000743:Anemia, Hemolytic / Q000276:immunology*; D000906:Antibodies / Q000276:immunology; D003298:Coombs Test; D005260:Female; D006384:Hemagglutination; D006801:Humans; D007048:I Blood-Group System / Q000276:immunology*; D007075:Immunoglobulin M / Q000276:immunology; D007674:Kidney Diseases / Q000276:immunology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D012293:Rifampin / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000276:immunology
D000906:Antibodies; D007048:I Blood-Group System; D007075:Immunoglobulin M; D012293:Rifampin