RELATIVELY COMMON

Evening Star, Issue 22033, 20 May 1935, Page 11

RELATIVELY COMMON

CASES OF AGRANULOCYTOSIS ' REMEDIAL DRUG AVAILABLE HERE In recent years, two cases of agranulocytosis have occurred in Dunedin, and both patients succuntbed. The successful treatment of the disease in Hamilton was reported on Saturday, and it was stated in the message that the disease was rare and that no other case had been reported ix\ the dominion. However, Dr D’Ath, professor of pathology, stated to-day that the disease was not nearly so rare 'as was suggested by the Hamilton 'message. Many case in other parts of the world had been recorded and much literature on agranulocytosis had appeared recently in »onedical journals. “ Agranulocytosis seems to' be relatively common in America and England, and no doubt many cases' in New, Zealand have gone by unrecognised,” said Dr' D’Ath. “ Many of the cases have been fatal, but a number, of recoveries are recorded. In some countries the disease is associated with the taking of certain drugs, commonly used for the relief of sleeplessness. The disease is very prone to follow the taking of this drug, the use of which is not so marked in New Zealand as in America and ■ Continental countries.” The - two fatal cases were diagnosed as agranulocytosis, but they came under medical notice too late for s cure to be effected, said the professor. Usually the first symptom was very intense ulceration of the throat. A later stage was the failure of the bone marrow to form certain constituents of the - blood, and the patient gradually went down hill. For the treatment of the disease, a certain drug was used and supplies were on hand at the Medical School, said Dr D’Ath. who explained that .the agents of the manufacturers had left a quantity with the school in case inquiries should be made by medical practitioners. , - , -