Immunosuppressive treatment of aplastic anemia with antithymocyte globulin and cyclosporine

Semin Hematol. 2000 Jan;37(1):56-68. doi: 10.1016/s0037-1963(00)90030-1.

Abstract

Immunosuppression is the treatment modality for the majority of patients with aplastic anemia, most of whom are not candidates for allogeneic stem-cell transplantation. Antithymocyte globulin (ATG) or antilymphocyte globulin (ALG) have proven to be essential components of all regimens. Initial response rates can be improved by the addition of cyclosporine A (CsA), and this combination has become the standard of care for appropriate patients. Several new approaches to immunosuppression are being studied, including the optimal timing of administration of these drugs, the use of novel immunosuppressive agents, and the addition of early- and late-acting hematopoietic growth factors.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anemia, Aplastic / drug therapy*
  • Antilymphocyte Serum / therapeutic use*
  • Cyclosporine / therapeutic use*
  • Growth Substances / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Recurrence
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antilymphocyte Serum
  • Growth Substances
  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Cyclosporine