[D-penicillamine in rheumatoid arthritis : hematological incidents and accidents (author's transl)].

From literature data and their own experience, the authors comment hematological complications, related to the use of D-penicillamine, mainly in theumatoïd arthritis. Hypereosinophilia is more common than thrombopenia, but, both complications are usually benign. Anemia alone is very rare. Leukopenia appears in 6% of treated patients, but pancytopenia is rare. Leukopenia and pancytopenia are the most severe complications, even fatal in some cases. The safest dose of D-penicillamine seems to be between 600 and 900 mg per day, provided that, however, regular hematological controls may be achieved.