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Rheumatoid pleural effusion: response to intrapleural corticosteroid.
P T Chapman1, J L O'Donnell, P W Moller
1Department of Rheumatology, Christchurch Hospital, NZ.
The Journal of Rheumatology
|March 1, 1992
Summary
Rheumatoid pleural effusion management improved with intrapleural depomethylprednisolone acetate injections. This provides a lasting benefit, serving as an interim solution before systemic therapies offer full disease control.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Pulmonology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Rheumatoid pleural effusion is a significant complication of rheumatoid arthritis.
- Managing symptomatic effusions can be challenging, often requiring multimodal approaches.
Observation:
- A patient with a large symptomatic rheumatoid pleural effusion was treated.
- Initial management with thoracentesis and bed rest provided only temporary relief.
Findings:
- Intrapleural injection of 120 mg depomethylprednisolone acetate resulted in a sustained and beneficial response.
- This localized corticosteroid therapy effectively managed the effusion.
Implications:
- Intrapleural depomethylprednisolone acetate is a valuable therapeutic option for rheumatoid pleural effusion.
- It serves as an effective bridging therapy while awaiting systemic disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) efficacy.