Abstract:

To explore the efficacy and safety of interleukin-6 receptor monoclonal antibody (tocilizumab) in patients with glucocorticoid-resistant/recurrent massive pericardial effusion after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The clinical data, diagnosis, treatments, and outcomes of 2 children with β-thalassemia major complicated by massive pericardial effusion after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation were analyzed retrospectively. One case of pericardial effusion was glucocorticoid-resistant and 1 case was recurrent. The pericardial effusion was resolved rapidly after administration of tocilizumab without significant adverse effects, the course of glucocorticoid therapy was shortened, and there was no recurrence of pericardial effusions during subsequent follow-up. Tocilizumab may be considered as a second-line option for patients with glucocorticoid-resistant or recurrent massive pericardial effusion after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

Key words: hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, pericardial effusion, interleukin-6, tocilizumab