Large Doses of Prednisone and Prednisolone in the Treatment of Malignant Lymphoproliferative Disorders

Abstract

Excellent results were obtained in 20 patients; moderately good results in 21; and only slightly beneficial results in three. These effects probably resulted primarily from tne cytolytic action of the corticosteroids on lymphoid tissue. Harmful side-effects of steroid therapy included diabetes mellitus in seven patients, fluid retention in two, and osteoporosis and compression fractures in two. Infectious complications occurred in 11 patients: pneumonia in nine, septicemia in one, and dental abscess in one. It is concluded that prednisone and prednisolone are valuable agents in large doses for suppressing lympho-proliferative diseases, particularly in patients who have become resistant to other forms of therapy.