[Raynaud syndrome complicated by digital gangrene during treatment with interferon-alpha]

Rev Med Interne. 1997;18(4):316-9. doi: 10.1016/s0248-8663(97)84017-9.
[Article in French]

Abstract

In a 43-year old male suffering from idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) since 1984, successfully treated with alpha interferon (alpha IFN) for 32 months, a severe Raynaud's phenomenon of the four extremities occurred and eventually evolved into digital necrosis within a few weeks. The arterial echography/doppler and plethysmography patterns were suggestive of isolated small-to medium-size digital artery occlusions. An extensive search for an aetiology of digital necrosis, including complete tests of autoimmunity, remained negative. Two months later, despite alpha IFN withdrawal and intravenous infusions of ilomedin, the digital ischemia evolved to extensive necrosis that necessitated several amputations and a definitive spinal chord stimulation. Pathologic examination of arteries showed no vasculitis but diffuse arterial occlusions by thrombi.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antiviral Agents / adverse effects*
  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use
  • Arteritis / chemically induced
  • Fingers / blood supply
  • Fingers / pathology*
  • Gangrene
  • Humans
  • Hypereosinophilic Syndrome / drug therapy
  • Interferon alpha-2
  • Interferon-alpha / adverse effects*
  • Interferon-alpha / therapeutic use
  • Male
  • Raynaud Disease / chemically induced*
  • Recombinant Proteins
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents
  • Interferon alpha-2
  • Interferon-alpha
  • Recombinant Proteins