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Interferon alfa (IFN-) was recently introduced for the treatment of cutaneous malignancies, benign tumors, and immunological disorders, and it has definitely broadened our therapeutic spectrum. Its adverse effects have been classified into acute, subacute, and chronic reactions. Acute reactions, such as fever and flulike symptoms, are usually self-limiting, while chronic neurologic and psychiatric disorders may cause significant morbidity.¹ Herein we describe 4 female patients who developed persistent myopathic symptoms during prolonged recombinant interferon alfa (rIFN-) therapy.

Patients

Four women (age range, 46-50 years) developed persistent myalgias with myopathy while receiving treatment with rIFN--2a. The patients were under continuous supervision in our department and were carefully followed up (Table 1). Myopathy was diagnosed based on clinical symptoms of persisting myalgia, fatigue, and muscle weakness; electromyographic findings; and, in patient 1, muscle computed tomography and muscle biopsy findings.

Table appears in full text version. Clinical Characteristics and rIFN--2a–Associated Myopathic Syndrome*

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In all 4 . . . [Full Text of this Article]