HYPERPYREXIA IN ASSOCIATION WITH ADMINISTRATION OF L‐ALPHA METHYLDOPA

Abstract

Abstract Two cases of hyperpyrexia associated with administration of l ‐alpha‐methyldopa are presented. Febrile reaction has been reported to both d ‐ and l ‐isomers of methyldopa but true hyperpyrexia has occurred only with the l ‐isomer. Previous attempts to obtain proof of an allergic reaction as a cause of hyperpyrexia have failed. In vitro studies were made of the leukocytes of one of the patients sensitized by administration of l ‐alpha‐methyldopa, which was also used as an antigenic agent in the experiment. The results suggest the possibility of toxic leukocytolysis as the causative mechanism underlying the hyperpyrexia.