ABSTRACT
The mutagenic potential of phenytoin (PHT) was studied using the sister chromatid exchange (SCE) assay. Twenty nine PHT treated epileptics, 32 untreated and 32 normal healthy controls were analysed. Similar SCE frequencies were observed in untreated patients and patients on PHT monotherapy. Both groups had significantly increased SCE frequency as compared to controls. No positive correlation of SCE frequency with sex and duration of therapy was observed. The results of the present study suggest the role of the disease condition in inducing genetic damage as assessed by increased SCE frequencies.
Subject(s)
Epilepsy/genetics , Phenytoin/adverse effects , Sister Chromatid Exchange/drug effects , Adolescent , Adult , Epilepsy/drug therapy , Female , Humans , Male , Mutagenicity Tests , Phenytoin/therapeutic useABSTRACT
An unusual presentation of a not so uncommon disease is described. Practical difficulties in arriving at a diagnosis of paralytic rabies are discussed. An enquiry of exposure and suspicion of rabies in atypical Landry's paralysis is stressed. The importance of autopsy to confirm either of the diagnoses is emphasized.
