(BETA) Opportunistic Infections: Paclitaxel Treatment for Kaposi's Sarcoma
Bulletin of Experimental Treatments for AIDS, No. 26; September 1995 Harvey Bartnof, MD
Researchers at the National Cancer Institute have reported on a Phase I study of paclitaxel (Taxol) as an effective treatment for Kaposi's sarcoma (KS). Paclitaxel is a naturally occurring substance isolated from the bark of the yew tree that has been shown to be effective against other cancers. M.W.Saville, MD, and colleagues have reported their research in the July 1, 1995 issue of Lancet. People with AIDS and advanced KS were given 135 mg/m2 intravenously over a period of 3 hours every 21 days. Over 65% had partial responses to the treatment, and all individuals with lung involvement responded. Toxicities included neutropenia (low white blood cell count), fever, rash, elevated eosinophil (a type of white blood cell) count and mild kidney toxicity.
The authors conclude that paclitaxel is effective as a single agent against Kaposi's sarcoma and that further studies, including a randomized trial, are warranted.
Saville MW and others. Treatment of HIV-associated Kaposi's sarcoma with paclitaxel. Lancet 346(8966): 26-28. July 1, 1995.
950901
BETA2643
Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeard in 1995. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
This information is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.