Abstract

AIDS: Researchers are studying the use of ganciclovir, administered by eye implants, for the treatment of CMV retinitis. Participants in a 1992/1993 study who had received the implant showed no progression of the disease while a no-implant comparison group suffered a worsening infection. The implants are designed to gradually release the drug over several months; implant replacement time is unknown, but replacement after 32 weeks is advised. Following implantation, initial blurred vision occurred, but normal vision returned within a month. Another study revealed that the non-implanted eye of a CMV retinitis patient usually became infected, but when subsequently treated with the implant, took a positive course. A study comparing different treatments for CMV retinitis is enrolling. Participants will be treated either with standard IV ganciclovir, a ganciclovir implant with oral ganciclovir, or a ganciclovir implant with placebo. Participants must have CMV retinitis in one eye. Implants are available from the manufacturer through a compassionate use program. For more information, contact The Network at (800) 734-7104.