Polymorphonuclear Leukocyte Myeloperoxidase Deficiency in a Patient with Myelomonocytic Leukemia

SINCE the elucidation of a bactericidal defect in polymorphonuclear leukocytes in chronic granulomatous disease of childhood,1 , 2 other abnormalities of leukocyte function have been reported. Lehrer and Cline have described a man with congenital absence of myeloperoxidase and a prolonged candida infection.3 In the following case myelomonocytic leukemia was associated with markedly deficient myeloperoxidase and abnormal neutrophil bactericidal function. Case Report A 58-year-old man with acute myelomonocytic leukemia was treated with corticosteroids, antimetabolites and whole-blood transfusions for 7 months before admission to the University of Minnesota Hospital. Physical examination revealed hepatosplenomegaly and diffuse rales throughout both lungs. Thrush was noted on . . .