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Cerebral perfusion scanning in treating AIDS dementia: a pilot study
Summary
Atevirdine mesylate shows promise in treating early Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) dementia complex (ADC). Cerebral blood flow imaging suggests potential clinical and imaging improvements in some patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) dementia complex (ADC) is a common neurological complication.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing ADC.
- Existing therapies may have limitations or side effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the regional cerebral blood flow in patients with early ADC.
- To assess the response of early ADC to atevirdine mesylate treatment.
- To determine the utility of SPECT imaging in evaluating ADC treatment efficacy.
Main Methods:
- Ten male patients with early ADC, who failed or were intolerant to prior therapies, received atevirdine mesylate for 12 weeks.
- Cerebral perfusion SPECT using 99mTc-HMPAO was conducted at baseline and 12 weeks.
- SPECT images were analyzed qualitatively and semiquantitatively.
Main Results:
- Cerebral perfusion abnormalities in early ADC typically presented as mild, bilateral, and symmetrical involvement of cortical and periventricular regions.
- Of the four patients who completed the protocol, three showed clinical response to atevirdine.
- Two of the responding patients demonstrated improved SPECT images, one remained unchanged, and the non-responder showed worsened perfusion.
Conclusions:
- Cerebral perfusion SPECT is a valuable tool for detecting ADC and assessing treatment response.
- Preliminary findings suggest atevirdine mesylate may be a promising treatment for ADC.
- Further investigation is warranted to confirm these preliminary results.