Yukihiko Kawasaki 1, Junzo Suzuki, Shigeo Suzuki, Hitoshi Suzuki
Scientific corner
Leukocytapheresis with leukocyte removal filter for severe ulcerative colitis in childhood
Generally, UC is associated with intervals of acute exacerbation and the administration of corticosteroids is effective in bringing about a clinical remission (1). Corticosteroids are not always effective even in doses over 1 mg/kg/day. In addition, the long-term use of corticosteroids often causes serious side effects such as growth retardation, glaucoma, hormonal disturbance, peptic ulcer, liver dysfunction and psychologic problems. Alternative treatment for active UC may be necessary to avoid the clinical problems associated with corticosteroid therapy. In recent years, leukocytapheresis (LCAP) and granulocytapheresis (GCAP) using a leukocyte removal filter has been found effective in some cases of adults with inflammatory bowel disease (2,3). However, there have been few reports concerning the efficacy of LCAP and GCAP for UC in childhood (4).We report two children with severe steroid-dependent UC in whom LCAP with leukocyte removal filter was used in treatment. LCAP therapy was safe and effective in two children with refractory UC and allowed discontinuation of corticosteroid therapy with an improvement in quality of life. Prospective studies of this therapy will be needed to clarify the role of LCAP in treatment of childhood UC.
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