Dapsone for thrombocytopenic purpura related to human immunodeficiency virus infection.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of dapsone on platelet count in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related autoimmune thrombocytopenia.


METHODS
Eleven patients with HIV-related thrombocytopenia received dapsone (50 to 125 mg/day) for 2 to 43 months. Patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome were not enrolled.


RESULTS
Of the 11 patients, six developed platelet counts above 50 X 10(9)/L and did not require any other specific therapy. No significant side effects were observed.


CONCLUSIONS
We conclude that dapsone may be effective in some patients with HIV-related thrombocytopenia.
Durand
J M
JM
Clinique Médicale B, Pr M. Mongin, CHU Timone, Marseille, France.
Lefèvre
P
P
Hovette
P
P
Issifi
S
S
Mongin
M
M
D000328:Adult; D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D003622:Dapsone / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000150:complications*; D006801:Humans; D007958:Leukocyte Count; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010976:Platelet Count / Q000187:drug effects; D011696:Purpura, Thrombocytopenic / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology
D003622:Dapsone