Remission of chronic lymphocytic leukemia after smallpox vaccination

Arch Intern Med. 1978 Jul;138(7):1137-8.

Abstract

A 78-year-old man with untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) was revaccinated for smallpox. A severe local reaction and generalized rash followed that responded to treatment with vaccinia immune human globulin. After recovery, the leukocyte count fell to normal and all evidence of CLL disappeared. He remains in complete remission three years after smallpox vaccination.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulins / therapeutic use
  • Leukemia, Lymphoid / blood
  • Leukemia, Lymphoid / immunology
  • Leukemia, Lymphoid / therapy*
  • Leukocyte Count
  • Lymphocytes
  • Male
  • Remission, Spontaneous
  • Smallpox Vaccine / administration & dosage
  • Smallpox Vaccine / pharmacology*
  • Smallpox Vaccine / therapeutic use
  • Vaccination
  • Vaccinia / immunology
  • Vaccinia / therapy

Substances

  • Immunoglobulins
  • Smallpox Vaccine