Alpha Interferon in AIDS-Related Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the efficacy of recombinant interferon alpha in the treatment of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy associated with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).


METHODS
Open label, uncontrolled study.


METHODS
Neurological unit and clinical AIDS program, Boston City Hospital, Boston, MA.


METHODS
Four consecutive AIDS patients with pathologically confirmed progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy.


METHODS
Each patient received alpha interferon for 4-12 weeks in a dose of 5-10 million units daily, administered subcutaneously. In addition, two of the four were taking acyclovir 2400 mg/day orally over the same period.


RESULTS
None of the patients showed any clinical response to the therapy; the mean survival was 14 weeks. No adverse effects of the treatment were encountered.


CONCLUSIONS
Despite anecdotal evidence that alpha interferon is effective in the treatment of progressive multifocal leukoencephalo pathy in non-AIDS patients, the experience of these patients suggests that the drug is of no benefit in AIDS-related PML.
Counihan
T
T
, Neurology Research, Warren 408, Massachusetts General Hospital, Fruit Street, Boston, MA, 02114.
Venna
N
N
Craven
D
D
Sabin
T D
TD
D017088:AIDS-Related Opportunistic Infections / Q000188:drug therapy; D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / Q000188:drug therapy; D000212:Acyclovir / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D016898:Interferon-alpha / Q000627:therapeutic use; D007968:Leukoencephalopathy, Progressive Multifocal / Q000188:drug therapy
D016898:Interferon-alpha; D000212:Acyclovir