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Acyclovir therapy of chickenpox in immunosuppressed children--a collaborative study
The Journal of Pediatrics
|October 1, 1982
Summary
Acyclovir showed potential in treating chickenpox in immunosuppressed children, with fewer cases of pneumonitis developing in the acyclovir group. No significant toxicity was observed during this study.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
- Immunocompromised Patients
Background:
- Chickenpox (varicella) poses significant risks for immunosuppressed children.
- Antiviral therapy is crucial for managing severe varicella infections in this vulnerable population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of acyclovir in treating chickenpox among immunosuppressed children.
- To assess the impact of acyclovir on the development of complications like pneumonitis.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter trial was conducted.
- Twelve pediatric patients received placebo, and eight received acyclovir.
- Patients were monitored for clinical deterioration and development of complications.
Main Results:
- Fewer patients receiving acyclovir developed pneumonitis compared to the placebo group (0/7 vs. 5/11, P = 0.054) among those without pneumonitis at entry.
- The study groups were comparable in age, malignancy status, and baseline immune cell counts.
- No acyclovir-related toxicity was observed during the investigation.
Conclusions:
- Acyclovir may be beneficial in reducing the incidence of pneumonitis in immunosuppressed children with chickenpox.
- The drug demonstrated a favorable safety profile in this pediatric cohort.
- Further research is warranted to confirm these findings in larger trials.
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