Recombinant lnterleukin-2 and Interf eron Alpha Immunotherapγ following Autologous Bone Marrow Transplantation

Abstract

The most serious side effects of recombinant interleukin-2 (rIL-2) and recombinant interferon-α (rIFNα) immunother-apy are cardiovascular disturbances, including systemic hypotension, left-ventricular dysfunction and pulmonary edema. We present a 25-year-old female who developed reversible cardiogenic shock during intermediate dose rIL-2 and low dose rIFNα therapy. Rapid clinical improvement occurred after intravenous fluid and dopamine support. A serial echocardiographic evaluation, which has not been described previously in this setting, is reported.