Reversible Cardiac Dysfunction Associated with Interferon Alfa Therapy in AIDS Patients with Kaposi's Sarcoma

Abstract

INTERFERON alfa is a leukocyte-derived glycoprotein with immunomodulatory, antiproliferative, and antiviral properties. Recombinant interferon alfa has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of Kaposi's sarcoma, hairy-cell leukemia, and condyloma acuminatum.1 , 2 In addition, interferon alfa has recently been shown to have antiretroviral effects in the early stages of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection in patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and Kaposi's sarcoma.3 , 4 Well-documented adverse effects of interferon therapy include a flu-like syndrome with fever, chills, and myalgias; malaise; anorexia; fatigue; bone marrow suppression; elevated levels of aminotransferase; and gastrointestinal discomfort. Neurologic and . . .