Effect of Recombinant Interferon-α2C on Reticuloendothelial Function in Patients with Thrombocytosis

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Abstract
The aim of the study was to investigate the influence of recombinant interferon-α2C (rIFN-α2C) on the in vivo Fc-dependent phagocytic activity of the reticuloendothelial (RE) system. Fourteen patients with excessive thrombocytosis due to myeloproliferative disorders were studied before and 3 months after initiation of therapy. RE function was determined by measuring the clearance of autologous red blood cells (RBC) labeled with 51Cr and sensitized with anti-D antibody. Eleven of the 14 patients responded to rIFN-α2 treatment (platelets, 9/liter). Rather in contrast to a shortening of platelet half-life and an increase (trendwise) in platelet-bound IgG, rIFN-α2 caused a significant impairment of RE function. Although this finding could in part be accounted for by the treatment-related decrease in splenic volume, statistical analysis revealed a direct influence of rIFN-α2 on RBC clearance (p < 0.01). Our study results might be explained by an interferon (IFN)-induced, intensified expression of Fc receptors on platelet (and leukocyte) surfaces, possibly enhancing unspecific binding of IgG to their cellular membranes. The subsequent increased platelet uptake may lead to an overloading of the RE system causing impaired reactions to additional stimuli such as IgG-coated RBC.