Hoffmann C, Horst HA, Weichenthal M, Hauschild A. Malignant melanoma and HIV infection -- aggressive course despite immune reconstitution.
Oncol Res Treat 2005;
28:35-7. [PMID:
15591722 DOI:
10.1159/000082291]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has altered the course of most AIDS-related malignancies. There is some evidence that cellular immunity plays an important role in the progression of metastatic melanoma.
CASE REPORT
We report on a patient suffering from metastatic melanoma and HIV infection. The 53-year-old man received HAART in order to use both its anti-tumor efficacy and its stimulating effect on cellular and humoral immune functions. Furthermore, our patient was treated with interleukin-2, a drug which has shown efficacy in metastatic melanoma and HIV infection.
RESULTS
Although the CD4 and CD8 cell count increased significantly, a fulminant progression of melanoma in the liver and spleen was noted, and the patient died subsequently.
CONCLUSION
This case describes that neither immune reconstitution through HAART nor interleukin-2 treatment were able to lead into an anti-tumor response. HIV-infected patients should be monitored routinely for an early diagnosis of this potentially lethal disease.
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