0000000000968440
AUTHOR
R. Pempinello
EARLY EFFICACY OF LIPOSOMAL AMPHOTERICIN B IN THE TREATMENT OF VISCERAL LEISHMANIASIS
The rapidity and efficacy of a short course of liposomal amphotericin B was evaluated in 29 children affected by visceral leishmaniasis (Leishmania infantum). Their overall health status was assessed using the prognostic inflammatory and nutritional index (PINI), and their haematological status by the reticulocyte count and haemoglobin blood levels. All these quantities were measured on day 0, and 3 and 10 d after starting therapy. A significant decrease of inflammatory signs, associated with an improved reticulocyte count, was recorded after 3 d of therapy. A significant increase of haemoglobin levels was also observed 10 d after the start of treatment. The early reduction of inflammatory …
Short-course treatment of visceral leishmaniasis with liposomal amphotericin B (AmBisome).
We evaluated liposomal amphotericin B (AmBisome; Vestar, San Dimas, CA) administered to 88 immunocompetent patients (56 children) with visceral leishmaniasis (VL) caused by Leishmania infantum. Thirteen patients received 4 mg/kg on days 1-5 and 10 (total dose, 24 mg/kg), and all were cured; 42 received 3 mg/kg on days 1-5 and 10 (18 mg/kg), and 41 were cured; 32 received 3 mg/kg on days 1-4 and 10 (15 mg/kg), and 29 were cured (amastigotes were not cleared from 1 child, and 2 relapsed). One adult was cured with a total dose of 12mg/kg. The four children who were not cured received 3 mg/kg for 10 days; none had further relapses. There were no significant adverse events. For VL due to L. infa…