A Study of Foscarnet in the Treatment of Cytomegalovirus (CMV) of the Eyes in Patients With AIDS Who Cannot Use Ganciclovir

Summary

To study the safety and effectiveness of foscarnet in the treatment of AIDS patients who have active infection with cytomegalovirus (CMV) that is causing inflammation of the retina (retinitis). In addition, these patients cannot be treated with ganciclovir (DHPG) because of its toxic effect on the body's blood-forming cells or because white blood cell or platelet counts were too low. CMV is a common virus, which can cause blindness and death in AIDS patients. Previous studies demonstrate that foscarnet has been effective in both AIDS and non-AIDS patients with CMV infection. Although treatment with ganciclovir (DHPG) is also effective, a significant toxicity leading to dose-limiting neutropenia (low white blood cell count) in one third of treated patients has been associated with the drug. Based on the serious nature of CMV retinitis and the lack of alternative drug therapies for DHPG-sensitive patients, the present study will evaluate the safety and efficacy of intravenous (IV) foscarnet in AIDS patients with CMV retinitis.

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Publications

• Background Polis MA. Foscarnet and ganciclovir in the treatment of cytomegalovirus retinitis. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr (1988). 1992;5 Suppl 1:S3-10.

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