title: Thrombocytopenia in a case of systemic lupus erythematosus: repeated administration of 'pulse' methyl prednisolone.
abstract: The case of a young woman with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is reported in whom thrombocytopenia was a major feature of her disease. She was given three courses of 'pulse' intravenous methyl prednisolone (IVMP) on separate occasions as treatment for profound thrombocytopenia. A diminishing response in platelet count was obtained following each course. She received a further course of IVMP for treatment of a nephritis, with a moderate platelet response; this may have been related in part to concomitant oral cyclophosphamide. IVMP may be an effective treatment for SLE-associated thrombocytopenia but repeated courses may result in a reduced platelet response.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D003520:Cyclophosphamide / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007275:Injections, Intravenous; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy; D008775:Methylprednisolone / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D010976:Platelet Count; D013156:Splenectomy; D013921:Thrombocytopenia / Q000150:complications*
chemical_list: D003520:Cyclophosphamide; D008775:Methylprednisolone