Ribavirin response in measles pneumonia.

A 9-year-old boy with Hodgkin's disease developed measles 1 month after completing eight courses of intensive anti-cancer chemotherapy. The atypical nature of the rash and the absence of Koplik's spots indicated a high risk of progression to fatal giant cell pneumonia. Seven days nebulised and intravenous ribavirin therapy produced apparent recovery. Two weeks later the child presented with measles giant cell pneumonia diagnosed on open lung biopsy. Ribavirin therapy was again successful. The role of ribavirin in the treatment of measles in immunocompromised children is discussed.