Six cases of seroconversion of human immunodeficient virus (HIV) antibody post-transfusion in HIV seronegative bloods.

Seroconversion of human immunodeficient virus (HIV)-antibody post blood transfusion has been reported (Jett et al, 1983; Cumming et al, 1989). We report here, six hematologic patients who became HIV-antibody positive after receiving HIV seronegative blood and blood components during their illness. There were three cases of acute non-lymphocytic leukemia, one thalassemia, one dyshemopoiesis and one hemophilia A. Thus, the risk of acquiring HIV infection from transfusion remains, despite the routine serological screening of donated blood by HIV ELISA tests. So the laboratory screening of blood should be improved by using more sensitive and specific antibody kits, including the use of HIV antigen testing, which have been reported to be useful in the diagnosis of patients with the early HIV infection.

An efficacy study of itraconazole in the treatment of Penicillium marneffei infection.

OBJECTIVES: to evaluate the efficacy and safety of itraconazole in treating P. marneffei infection. METHODS: Ten patients with previously untreated P. marneffei infection were given oral itraconazole at a dose of 200 mg twice a day for 2 months, followed by a dose of 100 mg once a day for 1 month. Efficacy was determined by the clinical and microbiological cure. RESULTS: All but one patient were seropositive for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Two patients died during therapy. Clinical improvement was evident in 8 patients. In 7 of these, the mean duration for becoming culture negative was 57 days. Five patients presented with relapse of P. marneffei infection within four months after completion of treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Itraconazole was shown to be effective in the initial treatment of P. marneffei infection. Relapse after treatment is common and long-term suppressive therapy is recommended.