Alpha-interferon therapy for lymphoproliferative disorders developing in two children following bone marrow transplants.

Abstract

Two children developed lymphoproliferative processes following marrow transplantation. One of the two lymphoproliferative processes was documented to be Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated. Both children received an extended course of alpha-interferon and gammaglobulin and responded with the disappearance of the lymphoproliferative process. Side effects from the alpha-interferon were minimal. Previous experience with EBV-associated lymphoproliferative processes following marrow transplantation have been usually fatal. This report further substantiates that alpha-interferon has a role in the treatment of EBV-associated lymphoproliferative processes following marrow transplantation.