THE USE OF BAL (2,3-DIMERCAPTOPROPANOL) IN THE TREATMENT OF AGRANULOCYTOSIS FOLLOWING INTENSIVE ARSENOTHERAPY FOR SYPHILIS

Abstract

BAL was given in doses of 1.5 ml. (10 % soln. in peanut oil) every 6 hrs. for 48 hrs., then, 2 ml. daily for 6 doses to 12 patients. No mortality occurred though previously 50-70% fatality had been reported. The majority of these patients received conventional supportive treatment, therefore, clinical evaluation of the efficacy of BAL is difficult. It was not feasible to carry on a control series receiving no BAL. The results suggest that BAL, administered early and in proper dosage, may contribute to and accelerate the recovery of these patients. The biologic explanation for this may be that BAL, through its selective affinity for the suppressing agent, decreases the time that is required for the bone marrow to recuperate. Toxic reactions to BAL may occur. Such reactions are transitory and seldom persist more than 30 mins.