Granulocyte colony stimulating factor in the treatment of alcohol abuse, leukopenia, and pneumococcal sepsis

A 32-year-old woman was admitted with alcoholism, leukopenia, and pneumococcal sepsis (ALPS). Standard treatment consists of antibiotics, vitamin replacement, and intensive care unit support. Even with this treatment, the mortality rate is exceedingly high. In addition to standard therapy, this patient received subcutaneously 300 micrograms granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) daily. Initial white blood cell count was 700 microL; by day 4 it had increased to 11,400 microL. She had a prolonged hospital course but was discharged in good condition 6 weeks after admission. G-CSF may be warranted in treating ALPS.