Severe aplastic anaemia with complete autologous marrow reconstitution following treatment with antithymocyte globulin. Report of a case and review of the literature.

In a patient with end-stage acquired aplastic anaemia, unsuccessful treatment with splenectomy, prednisone, pyridoxine and anabolic steroid was followed by administration of antithymocyte globulin (ATG). This therapy soon led to a gradual improvement and after 12 months, complete remission was obtained. The possible mechanism of action of ATG and the general principles of treatment are discussed.