[Virus-associated hemophagocytic syndrome due to rubella virus in an adult]

A 57-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital because of fever and eruption. On admission, her white blood cell count was 1,600/ml, and platelet count 1.7 x 10(4)/ml. Ferritin and lysozyme were elevated. Bone marrow aspiration showed 4% histiocyte with hemophagocytosis. The anti-rubella virus antibody titer was 1:64, and that at convalescence stage was 1:254. Therefore, she was diagnosed to have virus-associated hemophagocytic syndrome (VAHS). Steroid (methylprednisolone 1,000 mg x 3 days) and gamma globulin therapy were initiated. Her clinical condition and laboratory data were promptly improved. Thus, it was suggested that steroid-pulse and gamma globulin therapy are effective in the early stage of this syndrome in adult.