A role for platelet-derived growth factor in drug-induced chronic ergotism? A case report.
Generalized vasoconstriction in chronic ergot poisoning is attributed both to the ergotamine activity on alpha-adrenergic receptors and to its direct action on vascular smooth muscle cells. The authors propose that endothelial wall, chronically damaged by ergot alkaloids, releases platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), which contributes to vasoconstriction and promotes further arterial obstruction. Their hypothesis is supported by the increased PDGF activity found in plasma of a patient suffering from chronic ergotism.
Pietrogrande
F
F
Second Chair of Medicine, Institute of Medical Semeiotics, University of Padua, Italy.
Caenazzo
A
A
Dazzi
F
F
Polato
G
G
Girolami
A
A
D002908:Chronic Disease; D062787:Drug Overdose; D004878:Ergotamine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D004881:Ergotism / Q000097:blood* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D010982:Platelet-Derived Growth Factor / Q000032:analysis*; D014661:Vasoconstriction / Q000187:drug effects
D010982:Platelet-Derived Growth Factor; D004878:Ergotamine