Systemic lupus erythematosis with severe aplastic anemia successfully treated with rituximab and antithymocyte globulin

ABSTRACT

Hematologic disorders are very common in Systmic lupus erythematosus [SLE].First presentation of SLE with severe aplastic anemia [SAA] is extremely rare. We report a patient with the diagnosis of secondary SAA associated with SLE. Conventional therapy was not effective. She received Rituximab [RTX] and Antithymocyte globulin [ATG] therapy, her response was satisfactory finally. Her hematologic parameters were within normal ranges until last follow-up, eight months and six months after therapy was initiated with RTX and ATG, respectively. This is the first time RTX and ATG were successfully used in the treatment of SAA secondary to SLE