Corticosteroid use in the treatment of diffuse alveolar hemorrhage
Recommendation
Methyprednisolone 500 - 2000 mg IV in two to three divided doses x 5 days, then consider starting a gradual taper to an oral regimen.
- Note: Initiating steroids early is important especially if there is any concern for renal injury. The use of a taper or overall duration is patient dependent.
Supporting Guidelines |
| None |
Landmark or Original Stuides expand |
|
Casian A, Jayne D. Management of alveolar hemorrhange in lung vasculitides. Semin Respir Crite Care Med 2011;32:335-45. PubMed |
Supporting Studies expand |
| Jackson CA, Frund D. Corticosteroids in vascular lung disorders. JAMA 2011;32:305-45 PubMed |
| Hunt T, Johns T, Trung HL, et al. A review article on steroid use in diffuse alveolar hemorrhage. Crit Care Med 2000;55:1525-35. PubMed |
Related Articles & Reviews |
| Casian A, Jayne D. A review article on steroid use in diffuse alveolar hemorrhage. Drug Therapy Rev 1999;3:125-45. Pub Med |
Expert Comments |
| The landmark clinical trials answered an important question for this patient population but it is important to know that it only applies to adult males over the ager of 60 years. John S. Schulman, MD - Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD |
Editors: Anthony J. Busti, MD, PharmD, FNLA, FAHA
Last Reviewed: June 20, 2012
