Successful leukocytapheresis therapy in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis on maintenance hemodialysis

Abstract

We report the case of a 44-year-old female undergoing maintenance hemodialysis in whom early-phase rheumatoid arthritis (RA) was successfully treated by leukocytapheresis (LCAP). The effects of prednisone, tacrolimus, and etanercept were limited, but LCAP was highly effective and its efficacy continued even after cessation of LCAP. Moreover, remission was maintained for 2 years after discontinuation of medication. LCAP may be an important treatment option for RA patients with end-stage renal failure who are on hemodialysis.

Keywords:

• Leukocytapheresis (LCAP)
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Hemodialysis
• Drug-free remission

Conflict of interest

None.