From the Research
Intravenous methylprednisolone (Solumedrol) at a dose of 60mg is unlikely to cause significant monocytosis, as the most recent and highest quality study suggests that methylprednisolone does not significantly affect monocyte subsets in patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass 1.
Key Points to Consider
- Corticosteroids like methylprednisolone can affect white blood cell counts, but the effect on monocytes is not as well-defined as the effect on neutrophils.
- The study by 1 found that prophylactic administration of methylprednisolone did not decrease the percentages and counts of inflammatory monocyte subsets in patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass.
- Another study by 2 found that intravenous methylprednisolone altered the distribution and kinetics of monocyte adhesion molecule expression, but did not provide clear evidence of monocytosis.
- The clinical significance of steroid-induced monocytosis is usually minimal in most patients, but healthcare providers should interpret any blood count changes in the context of the overall clinical picture.
Important Considerations
- The dose and duration of methylprednisolone treatment can impact the effect on blood cell counts, with higher doses and longer durations more likely to cause significant changes.
- Regular complete blood counts are essential to monitor for hematologic effects, including monocytosis, in patients receiving methylprednisolone.
- The most recent and highest quality study should be prioritized when making decisions about the potential effects of methylprednisolone on monocytes, as seen in the study by 1.