Pharmacists’ role in multidisciplinary diagnosis and treatment in adverse reactions: A case report of interferon alfa-2b induced severe lupus

Various side effects of interferon alfa-2b (IFN-α2b) have been reported. However, no relevant research has been conducted on the identification and treatment scheme selection for IFN-α2b induced severe systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). PATIENT CONCERNS: A 41-years-old man with a long history of hepatitis B who developed severe active SLE after IFN-α2b therapy for 24 months, with complete and persistent remission of clinical and laboratory abnormalities after IFN-α2b withdrawal, was not observed. DIAGNOSIS: The patient was diagnosed with interferon-associated lupus by a multidisciplinary team involving pharmacists, and lupus nephritis by renal biopsy. INTERVENTIONS: Methylprednisolone (40 mg/day) with intravenous cyclophosphamide (600 mg/body weight) was initiated and the symptoms were partially relieved. Cyclophosphamide was increased from 600 mg to 850 mg at the pharmacist’s recommendation. OUTCOMES: The patient showed a favorable response to these therapies. LESSONS: Clinical pharmacists collaborated with other members of the health care team to diagnose and treat adverse reactions, resulting in improved patient management.