Abstract
Interleukin-2 (IL-2) acts by increasing the efficiency of the immune system to exert a tumoricidal effect. Although it is well known that immune stimulation with IL-2 plays a role in unmasking autoimmune phenomena such as autoimmune thyroiditis, hematological effects such as anemia and thrombocytopenia are more frequently due to toxic non-immune mechanisms. We describe a patient who developed severe Evans's syndrome [autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AHA) and immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)] secondary to IL-2 therapy. ITP was refractory to multiple treatment modalities including steroids and splenectomy. ITP and AHA were initially managed with intravenous gamma globulin therapy and frequent blood transfusions, respectively. Ultimately, immunosuppressive therapy with cyclophosphamide and chimeric monoclonal anti-CD20 antibody (rituximab) were successful in inducing complete remission of Evans's syndrome.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
