Raynaud's phenomenon and digital necrosis induced by interferon-alpha.
We report two patients treated with interferon-alpha who developed Raynaud's phenomenon followed by multiple digital necrosis. Arteriography of the legs revealed diffuse distal narrowing. Histological examination of the resected tissue showed ischaemic necrosis within the dermis and subcutaneous tissue without vasculitis. Resolution of the symptoms was observed when interferon-alpha was withdrawn. Since other causes of Raynaud's phenomenon and digital necrosis were ruled out, a drug cause is likely. Raynaud's phenomenon should be looked for in patients treated with interferon-alpha. If present, immediate withdrawal of the drug is required.
Bachmeyer
C
C
Clinique des Maladies Cutanées, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris, France.
Farge
D
D
Gluckman
E
E
Miclea
J M
JM
Aractingi
S
S
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D005385:Fingers / Q000473:pathology*; D005528:Foot / Q000098:blood supply; D006801:Humans; D000077190:Interferon alpha-2; D016898:Interferon-alpha / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009336:Necrosis; D011928:Raynaud Disease / Q000209:etiology*; D011994:Recombinant Proteins; D012039:Regional Blood Flow; D014034:Toes / Q000473:pathology*
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D000077190:Interferon alpha-2; D016898:Interferon-alpha; D011994:Recombinant Proteins