Scientific Publications by FDA Staff

Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol 1993 Oct;19(5):402-5

Neurological reactions in HIV-infected patients treated with trichosanthin.

Garcia PA, Bredesen DE, Vinters HV, Graefin von Einsiedel R, Williams RL, Kahn JO, Byers VS, Levin AS, Waites LA, Messing RO

Trichosanthin is a ribosome-inactivating protein that is being studied as a possible treatment for patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). We report the clinical and pathological features in two patients who experienced neurological reactions to trichosanthin. Both patients were neurologically asymptomatic prior to treatment but developed coma and multifocal neurological deficits after treatment. Neuropathological examination revealed regions of severe, multifocal necrosis with histiocytic infiltrates. These reactions to trichosanthin may be mediated by soluble factors released by HIV-infected macrophages.