Disseminated intravascular coagulation in acute promyelocytic leukemia. Possibility of treatment with glucocorticoids at high doses.

Seven patients affected by acute promyelocytic leukemia and presenting a hemorrhagic syndrome with hypofibrinogenemia have been treated with Daunorubicin and high doses of Glucocorticoids. In three out of the seven patients we also added an antiprotease agent (Trasylol, Bayer). Hemorrhagic diathesis has been controlled in all patients but one without massive platelet transfusions. A complete hematologic remission with prolonged survival was achieved in five patients.