Hematologic Complications Arising during Ristocetin Therapy

Abstract

RISTOCETIN¶ is a new antimicrobial agent, a lyophilized preparation representing two antibiotics, ristocetin A and ristocetin B. These components have been isolated from the fermentation broth of the actinomycete species Nocardia lurida.¹ In vitro and animal studies indicated marked bactericidal activity against gram-positive bacteria and mycobacteria. Advantages ascribed to ristocetin include low toxicity, lack of development of resistant organisms and an absence of crossresistance with other antibiotics.^{2 , 3} In a preliminary clinical study Romansky et al.³ demonstrated the efficacy of the drug in 16 cases. Local phlebitis was the only complication, but the dose was generally lower than the doses . . .